A highway safety checkpoint on Highway 955 in northern Saskatchewan is now in effect. The checkpoint is located on the Clearwater River Dene Nation (CRDN) north of La Loche. The highway is along the principal route into several uranium exploration areas. All parties travelling through the CRDN reserve are required to use the checkpoint. “The checkpoint responds to the rapid growth of uranium exploration and the Nation’s continuing need for reliable, current information about industrial activity within its Traditional Territory,” Clearwater River Dene Nation said in a media release Tuesday morning. Those using the checkpoint, including companies and contractors, will be asked to provide basic information, the nature and location of their work, the expected duration, along with the corporate or site contact information. CRDN says this helps the First Nation understand where and when activities are occurring, and maintain effective communication with those on the Territory. “All checkpoint operations and checks will be conducted in a lawful, peaceful, respectful and professional manner by trained, uniformed CRDN personnel,” CRDN said. “The checkpoint is not intended to interfere with lawful travel or responsible industrial activity.” The checkpoint will be staffed 24 hours a day. Clearwater River Dene Nation is located about 520 kilometres north of Prince Albert.
