FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 29, 2026

Beardy’s & Okemasis’ Cree Nation, Treaty No. 6 territory – Beardy’s & Okemasis’ Cree Nation (BOCN) Chief and Council have unanimously passed a Band Council Resolution reaffirming the Nation’s commitment to community safety through collaboration with the Saskatchewan Marshals Service (SMS).

Following presentations by SMS representatives to Chief and Council and BOCN Elders, leadership identified that this relationship is an opportunity to enhance public safety, strengthen crime prevention efforts, and support the overall well-being of members and residents.

Through a resolution passed on September 25, 2026, Chief and Council formally welcomed the Marshals Service to provide policing support within BOCN, working alongside the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and assisting with investigations when required.

BOCN and the Saskatchewan Marshals Service are committed to maintaining open communication focused on the safety and well-being of the community. This collaboration may include information sharing, operational updates following enforcement or investigative activities, and other cooperative measures that complement RCMP operations.

Chief and Council recognize that partnerships with public safety agencies play an important role in building safer communities while respecting the rights, interests, and priorities of BOCN members.

Chief Edwin Ananas emphasizes that community safety remains a top priority for BOCN leadership. “By building positive working relationships with the Saskatchewan Marshals Service, we are ensuring our community remains safe for our members, especially our Elders and youth,” Chief Ananas said.

Council’s resolution reflects BOCN’s ongoing commitment to pursuing partnerships and initiatives that contribute to a safer and more secure community.

On August 14, 2026, the SMS presented to more than 100 BOCN Elders during the Community Presentations and Elders Meeting at the Veteran’s Memorial Hall. Following the presentation, a show of hands indicated strong support among Elders for welcoming the Saskatchewan Marshals Service into the community to work alongside the RCMP in community safety, crime prevention, and investigative efforts.

Councillor Tyler Smallchild, who holds the Justice and Elders portfolios, said welcoming the Saskatchewan Marshals Service to BOCN is an important step toward ensuring members feel safe living, working, and raising their families within the Nation.
“As leaders for BOCN, we have a responsibility to make strategic decisions that reflect the guidance of our Elders and the best interests of all members, both on and off reserve. We are confident the Saskatchewan Marshals Service will help strengthen public safety within our Nation,” said Councillor Smallchild.

BOCN remains committed to finding ways forward on matters of community safety and exploring collaborative approaches that help create a safe, secure, and healthy community for current and future generations.

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For more information, contact:
BOCN Communications
(306) 467-4523 | communications@beardysband.com

Download the release here: 2026-09-28_Release_SaskMarshalsService_BOCN_BCR