NDP MPPs show support for search for missing man near Fort Severn, ON

SIOUX LOOKOUT and KAPUSKASING – NDP MPPs Sol Mamakwa (Kiiwetinoong) and Guy Bourgouin (Mushkegowuk-James Bay) have released a statement on the ongoing search for a missing man in far northern Ontario and Manitoba. Steffen Skjottelvik, a Norwegian trekker and a friend to community members in Peawanuck and Fort Severn has not been heard from since last Thursday, August 14 when he was just hours away from York Factory, Manitoba.

"Steffen’s story has drawn the concern of communities across the northern Ontario shores of James and Hudson Bays,” MPP Mamakwa said. “Community members in Fort Severn First Nation have been leading the search for Steffen with the support of Fort Severn’s Chief and Council, but they are facing many challenges including the cost of the search and difficulty navigating the terrain. The search team is asking for contributions so that they can continue to look for Steffen.”

“We are calling on all pertinent Ontario, Manitoba and federal government agencies as well as the Canadian Ambassador to Norway to step up and do more to find this missing young man and bring him to safety. Our thoughts are with Steffen and everyone helping out with the search. Meegwetch to Fort Severn for their initiative in this search."

"The people of Fort Severn and Peawanuck are showing incredible courage and determination in their efforts to find Steffen," said MPP Guy Bourgouin. "It’s vital that governments provide immediate support so the community is not left to shoulder this burden alone. Every moment counts in a search of this nature, and Steffen’s safe return must be our shared priority."