Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation

08/24/2026

PBCN becomes Saskatchewan’s only independent ISET agreement holder

(Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, Treaty 6 Territory) — Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN) is taking greater control of the future of its workforce as Saskatchewan’s only independent agreement holder under the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) Program.

The historic agreement, which took effect Jan. 1 under the First Nations stream of the federal ISET Program, was signed Saturday, Aug. 22, with the Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, minister of Indigenous Services, and the Honourable Buckley Belanger, secretary of state for rural development, on hand to mark the occasion. The agreement was announced on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, minister of Jobs and Families.

The agreement gives PBCN direct responsibility for designing and delivering employment and training services for its eight communities in Treaty 6 and Treaty 10 territories in northeastern Saskatchewan. The agreement took effect Jan. 1, 2026, under the First Nations stream of the ISET Program.

For PBCN, the agreement follows about a decade of work involving PBCN leadership and council, Elders, Service Canada, federal partners, consultants and others. It gives PBCN greater control over the design and delivery of employment and skills training programs based on the needs and priorities of its members.

“For years, we have said that our people know what our communities need, and this agreement puts that principle into action,” said Chief Peter Beatty. “We can now design training around our own priorities, our own people and the opportunities that exist in our communities and across the province. This is about removing barriers, creating opportunities and giving our members the tools they need to build careers and support their families. Most importantly, it puts those decisions where they belong — with our Nation.”

The agreement will allow PBCN to provide training and employment services to members across Saskatchewan and Canada, including those living in urban centres, while strengthening partnerships with employers, training institutions and governments.

“Canada is committed to advancing opportunities for Indigenous Peoples. This important milestone for the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation reflects the value of working in partnership to create the opportunities that will put the power in the hands of the community to decide their future,” said the Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services.

The federal government is providing $6.8 million through the existing ISET funding envelope for the PBCN agreement.

PBCN has already seen results. The number of PBCN members funded for training has increased from approximately 20 to more than 500 since PBCN took over program delivery.

Under the agreement, PBCN can tailor programming to community priorities, participant needs and employment opportunities while strengthening relationships with employers, training institutions and government partners. It also provides greater flexibility to connect PBCN members living outside their home communities, including those in urban centres, with employment and training opportunities.

For PBCN, becoming Saskatchewan’s only independent ISET agreement holder means the Nation can make its own decisions about how those opportunities are created and delivered — ensuring employment and training investments respond to PBCN priorities and create lasting benefits for its people and communities.

08/21/2026

Saskatchewan RCMP Traffic Services seize alcohol and suspend drivers in Pelican Narrows area

2026-08-21

Saskatchewan RCMP Traffic Services seized 22 large bottles of alcohol and suspended five drivers for consuming alcohol/drugs prior to driving in Pelican Narrows area.

Between August 10, 2026, and August 16, 2026, as part of the Saskatchewan RCMP northern relief program to support frontline police officers, Saskatchewan RCMP Traffic Services officers were deployed to conduct patrols in the Pelican Narrows RCMP detachment area.

During these proactive traffic stops, Traffic Services officers seized a total of twenty-two 66-ounce bottles of alcohol during three separate stops (three, twelve and seven bottles, respectively). They also removed five drivers and their vehicles from the roads for consuming alcohol and/or drugs prior to driving.

Inspector Lee Knelsen, Operations Officer of Saskatchewan RCMP Traffic Services, said: “These proactive traffic stops are proving effective at helping to reduce criminality and keep the population safe. We encourage residents to support these efforts by driving safely and reporting impaired drivers and criminal activity.”

08/20/2026

Saskatchewan RCMP seek tips about vehicle location in relation to investigation

2026-08-20

9:46 a.m.

Saskatchewan RCMP’s Homicide Investigation Unit is asking the public to report sightings and information on the whereabouts of 23-year-old Chasity Charolette Rose Clarke.

Chasity Clarke is wanted on warrant for one count, manslaughter, Section 236(b), Criminal Code (Information # 9057829). This charge was laid on August 19, 2026, following the homicide of 19-year-old Silvino Grenier in Sandy Bay, SK.

Chasity Clarke is described as:
· Height: 5 ft 5 in
· Weight: 154 lbs
· Eye colour: brown
· Hair colour and style: black
· Other descriptors: wears prescription glasses

A photo of her is attached.

Chasity Clarke is known to travel to the following areas:
§ Southend
§ Pelican Narrows
§ Sandy Bay
§ Prince Albert

Saskatchewan RCMP’s Homicide Investigation Unit RCMP continues to investigate with assistance from Saskatchewan RCMP’s Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Team.

If you see Chasity Clarke, do not approach her. Report all sightings and information about the whereabout of Chasity Clarke to your local police at 310-RCMP (7267). Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

Investigators continue to ask Sandy Bay residents to check their home security cameras and doorbell cameras for video recorded between the hours of 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. on August 16 and report any suspicious activity to police.

Updates will be provided when available. If an imminent risk to public safety is identified, we will notify the public.

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08/17/2026

UPDATE #2: Saskatchewan RCMP seek tips about vehicle location in relation to investigation

2026-08-17
4:24 p.m.

Further investigation has determined an altercation occurred between the victim and multiple individuals at the residence in the early morning hours of August 16. The victim was injured and was later declared deceased.

The victim has been identified as 19-year-old Silvino Grenier from Sandy Bay, SK. His family has been notified, and victim services have been made available to them.

Saskatchewan RCMP’s Homicide Investigation Unit continues to work to identify suspects. Investigators have identified a black SUV believed to be involved

Investigators are asking Sandy Bay residents to check their home security cameras and doorbell cameras for video recorded between the hours of 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. on August 16 and report any suspicious activity to police.

Anyone with information about this incident, the individuals or vehicle involved is asked to report it to police by calling 310-RCMP (7267). Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

There will be an increased police presence in the Sandy Bay area for an undetermined amount of time.

Updates will be provided when available. If an imminent risk to public safety is identified, we will notify the public.

08/16/2026

Saskatchewan RCMP seek tips about vehicle location in relation to investigation

2026-08-16
8:11 a.m.

On August 16, 2026 at approximately 4:35 a.m., Sandy Bay RCMP received a report of an injured adult male at a residence in Sandy Bay.

Officers immediately responded and located the male, who was declared deceased at the scene by medical professionals.

The male’s death is considered suspicious. As a result, Saskatchewan RCMP’s Homicide Investigation Unit (HIU) has taken carriage of the investigation.

Investigation has determined that a dark-coloured blue or black van or SUV may be connected to this investigation. Anyone with information about a vehicle matching this description, including its presence in the Sandy Bay community the morning of August 16 can report it to police immediately. The van/SUV should not be approached. The occupant(s) may be armed and are considered dangerous.

Saskatchewan RCMP’s HIU is asking anyone who lives in in the Sandy Bay area to check their home security cameras and doorbell cameras for the early morning of August 16. If your device captured images or videos of suspicious activity or a black/blue van/SUV, please report it to police immediately. Information can be reported to your local police service by calling 310-RCMP.

Saskatchewan RCMP’s HIU is asking anyone with information about this incident, or who witnessed suspicious activity in the Sandy Bay area in the early morning of August 16, to report it immediately to their local police.

Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
Investigators advise there will be an increased police presence in the Sandy Bay area for an undetermined amount of time.

Updates will be provided when available. If an imminent risk to public safety is identified, we will notify the public.

Saskatchewan RCMP continue to investigate.

2026-08-16
8:50 a.m.

Please note that the vehicle potentially connected to this investigation, a dark-coloured blue or black van or SUV, may have a dent on the vehicle's driver's side back tire rim.

https://rcmp.ca/en/saskatchewan/news/2026/08/4355961

News release Saskatchewan RCMP seek tips about vehicle location in relation to investigation August 16, 2026 - Sandy Bay, Saskatchewan From: Saskatchewan RCMP On this page Content Content On August 16, 2026 at approximately 4:35 a.m., Sandy Bay RCMP received a report of an injured adult male at a re...

08/16/2026

Pelican Narrows RCMP: one arrested and three wanted in shooting investigation

2026-08-13
4:08 p.m.

Three males are wanted by Pelican Narrows RCMP in relation to a shooting.

On August 7, 2026 at approximately 4:45 a.m., Pelican Narrows RCMP received a report of a shooting at a residential property on Linklater Street in Pelican Narrows.

Investigation determined a group of armed males approached a male and female at the property, demanding the keys to their vehicle. An altercation occurred and a firearm was discharged, injuring the male and female. The armed males fled from the area; they did not steal the victim’s vehicle. Both victims were taken to hospital by EMS with injuries described as serious in nature.

Pelican Narrows RCMP patrolled the area and located the suspects travelling in a truck in Pelican Narrows. Officers engaged their vehicle’s emergency equipment and initiated a traffic stop. The truck did not stop for police. Instead, it fled at a high rate of speed.

Shortly after, officers located the truck abandoned on Dorion Crescent. Pelican Narrows RCMP arrested three males nearby. Two of the males were later released without charge.

During a search of the truck, officers located and seized a loaded firearm.

As a result of investigation, 24-year-old William McKay, 18-year-old Mikka McCallum, 25-year-old Tyrese Sewap, and a male teenager, all from Pelican Narrows, are each charged with:

two counts, aggravated assault, Section 268, Criminal Code;
one count, careless use of a firearm, Section 86(1), Criminal Code;
one count, dangerous operation of motor vehicle, Section 320.13(1), Criminal Code;
two counts, discharge firearm with intent, Section 244.1(b), Criminal Code;
one count, pointing a firearm, Section 87(1), Criminal Code
one count, possession of a firearm with a tampered serial number, Section 108(1)(a), Criminal Code;
one count, possession of a firearm/weapon/device/ammunition in motor vehicle, Section 94(1), Criminal Code;
one count, possession of restricted firearm/prohibited weapon with ammunition without license/registration, Section 95(1), Criminal Code;
one count, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, Section 88(1), Criminal Code;
one count, flight from peace officer, Section 320.17, Criminal Code; and
one count, robbery with firearm, Section 344(1)(a), Criminal Code.

William McKay appeared in Prince Albert Provincial Court on August 10, 2026 (Information #90640172).

Warrants have been issued for Mikka McCallum, Tyrese Sewap, and the male teenager’s arrests (Information #90640176, #90640178, ). Pelican Narrows RCMP continue work to locate them and ask the public to report sightings and information on their whereabouts.

Tyrese Sewap is described as:

Height: 6’1”
Weight: 140 lbs
Eye colour: brown
Hair colour/style: brown, short

A photo of Tyrese Sewap is attached.

We are working to obtain a recent description and photo of Mikka McCallum.

The male teenager is under the age of 18; therefore, he cannot be identified as per the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

Pelican Narrows RCMP continue to investigate.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact Pelican Narrows RCMP by calling 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

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https://rcmp.ca/en/saskatchewan/news/2026/08/4355954

News release Pelican Narrows RCMP: one arrested and three wanted in shooting investigation August 14, 2026 - Pelican Narrows, Saskatchewan From: Saskatchewan RCMP On this page Content Contacts Content Tyrese Sewap Three males are wanted by Pelican Narrows RCMP in relation to a shooting. On August 7,...

07/30/2026

Update on Weir Fire (26DB) Near Denare Beach

Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation is providing the following update regarding the Weir Fire (26DB), located along the Sturgeon Weir Road, approximately 10 kilometres south of Denare Beach.

The fire was reported at approximately 5:00 p.m. on July 29 and was initially classified as a Rank 3 human-caused wildfire.

Firefighters responded immediately, with Type 2 wildfire crews, Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) aircraft and the Denare Beach Volunteer Fire Department working together to contain the fire.

Thanks to their quick response, the fire was successfully contained by approximately 9:30 p.m. last night. The Denare Beach Volunteer Fire Department remained on scene overnight to monitor the area and ensure there was no visible fire.

Type 2 wildfire crews returned to the fire this morning to continue mop-up operations and will complete a final scan of the area before the fire is officially declared extinguished.

Crews have confirmed the fire originated in a cabin or cook shack before spreading into the surrounding forest. A fire investigator is on scene to determine the cause of the fire.

PBCN extends its sincere appreciation to the Type 2 wildfire crews, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency and the Denare Beach Volunteer Fire Department for their swift response and coordinated efforts in bringing this fire under control.

Residents are reminded to remain vigilant, report any signs of smoke or wildfire immediately, and continue practicing safe fire prevention measures as hot and dry conditions persist.

— Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation

07/28/2026

Wildfire Update for Sandy Bay and Southend

Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation continues to work closely with the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA), emergency management partners and local leadership to monitor wildfire conditions affecting Sandy Bay and Southend.

Recent rainfall and favourable weather have significantly reduced wildfire activity across the region. Fire officials report there is currently no immediate threat to either community, and no significant fire growth is expected over the next several days.

Southend Update

Fire crews continue monitoring the McDonald and SEIR 01 fires, both of which remain uncontained. However, recent precipitation has helped lower fire intensity, allowing crews to focus on extinguishing remaining hot spots and strengthening containment efforts.

Firefighters continue sharing resources between both incidents and are working approximately 200 feet inside the fire perimeter to eliminate lingering hot spots. Current forecasts indicate no significant growth toward Southend over the next four days.
The Fleming Fire remains contained, and crews reported no visible flames during inspections today.

The Gulak Fire has now been officially declared out following aerial scans that confirmed no remaining hot spots.

Sandy Bay Update

The Border Fire remains approximately 17.8 kilometres from Sandy Bay and continues to exhibit very low fire behaviour, with only creeping and smouldering activity.

Fire crews have completed inspections of areas of concern and reported no new issues. The fire remains well away from the community, and current conditions continue to support steady progress toward long-term containment.

Officials also confirmed there have been no recent concerns with the nearby SEIR 01 fire in the Sandy Bay area, with no visible smoke reported since before last week's storm.

Weather and Smoke Conditions

A drying trend is expected over the coming days, with daytime temperatures reaching the mid-20s. While there is a chance of rain and lightning on July 28, forecasts remain uncertain.
Although winds may shift smoke from the McDonald and SEIR 01 fires toward Southend at times, no significant fire movement is expected.

Air quality remains good across the region, and no significant smoke has been reported in Sandy Bay or neighbouring communities.

Looking Ahead

Given the improving wildfire situation, regular coordination meetings are no longer scheduled. Meetings will be reconvened if new fires develop, smoke conditions worsen or community concerns arise.

PBCN extends its sincere appreciation to all wildfire crews, emergency responders, contractors, volunteers and community members for their continued hard work and commitment throughout the wildfire season.

Residents are encouraged to continue following official PBCN communication channels for updates as conditions evolve.

— Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation

07/23/2026

Wildfire Update for Sandy Bay and Southend

Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation continues to work closely with the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA), emergency management partners and local leadership to monitor wildfire activity affecting Sandy Bay and Southend.

Firefighters continue making steady progress across the region, and there are currently no immediate wildfire threats to either community. As conditions continue to improve, wildfire coordination meetings will now move to a weekly schedule unless conditions change.

Southend Update

Fire crews continue to make excellent progress on the major fires surrounding Southend.

The Fleming Fire is now approximately 70 percent contained. Crews are focused on mop-up operations and strengthening containment lines, with fire officials reporting a very positive outlook.

The SEIR Fire has reached approximately 60 percent containment. More than 50 Type 2 firefighters, supported by Type 1 personnel and helicopter bucket operations, continue working to strengthen containment and extinguish remaining hot spots.

The McDonald Fire remains an operational priority. Crews are focusing their efforts along the north side and west flank to prevent the fire from crossing the river should weather conditions change.
Officials also confirmed there is currently no immediate threat to Southend from the southern fires. Residents may continue to experience smoke as firefighting operations continue.

Sandy Bay Update

The Border Fire continues to show encouraging progress.

Firefighters report minimal fire movement, with excellent progress made along the northwest flank. Crews working between Pads 1 and 20 report only low-intensity smoke and no visible open flames.
A small backing fire on the southwest corner developed due to changing winds but is not considered a concern.

Officials also clarified that a recent satellite image suggesting the fire was much closer to Sandy Bay was inaccurate. The actual fire line remains farther from the community than initially indicated.

The small community fire near Sandy Bay is now mostly extinguished. Fire crews will complete one final inspection on July 23 before officially declaring the fire out.

Looking Ahead

With wildfire conditions continuing to improve and no immediate threats to communities, daily wildfire coordination meetings are no longer required. Weekly meetings will continue to ensure communities remain informed, with additional meetings scheduled if conditions change.

Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation thanks all wildfire crews, emergency responders, volunteers and community members for their continued commitment and resilience throughout the wildfire season..

— Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation

07/22/2026

Wildfire Update for Sandy Bay and Southend

Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation continues to work closely with the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA), emergency management partners and local leadership to monitor wildfire activity affecting Sandy Bay and Southend.

There are currently 56 active wildfires in Saskatchewan. Fire crews continue suppression, containment, patrol and assessment work throughout the northern region.

Recent moisture and mild winds have helped reduce fire activity in several areas. Weather conditions are expected to remain generally favourable for fire-control operations over the next few days, with partly cloudy skies, isolated showers and mostly light west to southwest winds.

Even where there is little or no visible smoke, fires will remain under assessment until infrared scans and ground patrols confirm that all remaining hotspots have been extinguished.

SOUTHEND AREA

Crews continue making strong progress on the fires near Southend.

The Fleming Fire did not affect Highway 905, and crews now have a good handle on the fire. Type 3 crews are arriving to support mop-up operations.

SEIR01 is approximately 12.5 kilometres from Southend. Fireguards, equipment pads and control lines are holding well. Crews are continuing to secure the fire perimeter, with particular attention being given to its southeast and eastern sections because of possible wind exposure.

Due to the size of SEIR01, full containment may take time. However, suppression work is progressing well, and there are no immediate concerns for the community.

Values protection remains in place near the Creswell Fire, which has shown minimal growth. The Moose Fire is being monitored and continues to look good.

The Gulak Fire, approximately 11.9 kilometres from Southend, has shown no visible smoke for two days and remains under ongoing assessment.

Work is also continuing on the McDonald Fire. Crews are cutting equipment pads to allow safe access and are working to secure the northern section and several finger-shaped portions of the fire. The area near Forfar Lake continues to be monitored to prevent the fire from crossing into that area.

SANDY BAY AREA

The Church Fire has moved into ongoing assessment and continues to be monitored.

The Campbell Fire was brought within containment during the first 24 hours. Crews worked along the railway to secure the fire, and it has remained under assessment for several days while officials wait for additional scans.

The Proctor Fire is contained at approximately 32 hectares. The area received rain, no visible smoke has been observed, and crews continue to patrol while awaiting another scan.

The Border Fire has shown no growth over the past two days. Some low-intensity burning continues within the established fire boundaries, mainly in the southern section.

Saskatchewan crews are concentrating on the northern portion of the Border Fire to prevent movement toward Sandy Bay. Manitoba crews are working along their side of the fire.
Approximately seven Type 2 crews, eight Type 1 crews, operational personnel and helicopters are assigned to the fire, with additional Type 3 support planned.

Values-protection pumps around the Madden Fire have been serviced and remain operational.

LA RONGE AND SURROUNDING AREA

Crews continue monitoring and working on several fires in the La Ronge region.

Sprinklers and other values-protection equipment remain in place in the Zach and Stusiak areas.

Four hotspots were located and extinguished on the Egg Fire. One additional scan is planned before the fire can be declared out.

The Milner Fire has moved into ongoing assessment following containment work. The Tikan Fire is looking good and is awaiting another scan.

Work continues on the French Fire near Grandmother’s Bay. The Wapa and Dowd fires are being monitored in previously burned areas and are showing low activity.

The Budd Fire is approximately 10,894 hectares and is estimated to be 40 per cent contained. Five medium and two intermediate helicopters are supporting operations. The fire has been divided into eastern and western operating areas to help crews manage it more effectively.

Four Type 3 crews have arrived and are working on the Budd Fire. Fire behaviour remained low today, with some rain recorded in the area.

SMOKE FORECAST

A significant amount of smoke is expected to move into Saskatchewan over the next several days. This smoke is coming from fires within Saskatchewan as well as British Columbia, the Northwest Territories, the United States and Ontario.

The general smoke movement is expected to be from north to south. Low to moderate smoke coverage is forecast across much of the province, although some communities may experience brief periods of heavier smoke.

Air-quality monitors have not recorded sustained, alarmingly high smoke levels at this time. However, conditions can change quickly depending on wind direction and nearby fire activity.

HEALTH RECOMMENDATIONS

Elders, children, pregnant individuals, and people with existing heart or respiratory conditions may be more affected by wildfire smoke and should remain indoors during periods of heavier smoke.

Community members are encouraged to:

• Keep windows and doors closed when smoke is present.
• Reduce strenuous outdoor activity.
• Use a properly fitted mask when outdoor exposure cannot be avoided.
• Use a HEPA air purifier if one is available.
• Access a community fresh-air shelter if indoor air quality becomes unsafe.
• Monitor family members for persistent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain or other concerning symptoms.
• Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms develop or worsen.
All local clinics and hospitals remain open and fully operational. Current environmental modelling does not support a large-scale evacuation based on smoke conditions alone.

AIR PURIFIERS AND CLEAN-AIR SUPPORTS

Seventy-four in-home air purifiers are scheduled to arrive in Prince Albert on July 22 for distribution to community health centres.

The air purifiers will be allocated through local clinics based on medical need, with priority consideration given to residents identified through P1, P2 and chronic-care lists. Community leadership and health officials are also seeking further information regarding support for newborns, infants and other vulnerable residents.

Large commercial air conditioners have been ordered to support community clean-air shelters during periods of heat and smoke. Additional large air-purification units may also be made available for community halls or gymnasiums if conditions worsen.

CONTINUED MONITORING

PBCN Emergency Management continues working closely with wildfire officials, NITHA, local health centres and other response partners.

Fire and smoke conditions can change quickly. Community members are asked to continue following official PBCN notices and instructions from local leadership.

Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

— Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation