PEGUIS FIRST NATION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—
May 21, 2026
RE: Minister Mandy Gull-Masty Visits Peguis First Nation for Community Flood Mitigation Discussions
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Peguis First Nation Chief and Council were honoured to welcome Mandy Gull-Masty and representatives from Indigenous Services Canada to Peguis First Nation today for an important Community Flood Mitigation Meeting focused on the long-term protection, recovery, and future resiliency of our Nation.
The visit included a traditional pipe ceremony led by community members, grounding the discussions in respect, prayer, and the teachings of our ancestors.
Leadership emphasized the importance of protecting future generations and ensuring that any long-term flood mitigation planning incorporates the voices, experiences, and traditional knowledge of our people.
During the meeting, Peguis leadership outlined the devastating impacts flooding has had on our Nation over many years, including the catastrophic 2022 flood event which resulted in approximately $300 million in damages.
Leadership shared that 358 Peguis families remain displaced today, while many others continue to face the long-term emotional, financial, and health impacts associated with repeated flooding, including mold-related illnesses and respiratory concerns.
Chief and Council presented the Nation’s long-term vision for flood protection and community resiliency, including:
• Long-term diking systems to protect key community infrastructure and residential areas
• Retention ponds and water management systems to reduce future flooding risks
• Improved drainage and emergency management infrastructure
• Housing recovery and rebuilding efforts focused on safer and more sustainable development
• Nation-led planning that incorporates community engagement and traditional knowledge
The estimated long-term investment required for full flood mitigation and rebuilding efforts is currently projected at approximately $350 million.
Minister Gull-Masty acknowledged the seriousness of the challenges facing Peguis First Nation and expressed support for continued collaboration and partnership moving forward. Discussions also emphasized the importance of establishing a working table involving community leadership, technical experts, hydrologists, engineers, and government representatives to continue advancing solutions together.
Peguis leadership stressed that the Nation is not simply rebuilding what was lost, but working toward building back stronger, safer, and more resilient for future generations.
Chief and Council would like to thank Minister Gull-Masty, Indigenous Services Canada representatives, Elders, technicians, staff, and community members who participated in today’s discussions and ceremony.
Further updates will be shared with community members as planning and technical discussions continue.
Miigwech
PEGUIS CHIEF and COUNCIL
