I have a return to written question asked by Mr. Menicoche on March 16, 2004, regarding the search for a missing Willow Lake River resident.
A resident had gone for a walk on the evening of March 13, 2004. The next morning, after she had been missing for 17 hours, other residents went into Wrigley to telephone the RCMP. The RCMP did not respond until that evening. They informed the Rangers to stand by but did not tell them to proceed.
Members of the community continued their search and found the missing person more than 24 hours after her disappearance. Fortunately the missing person is making a full recovery. Members of the community are angry at the lack of response from the RCMP.
This matter was referred to the RCMP and it was determined that a public complaint investigation was warranted. On March 23, 2004, an officer was sent to Fort Simpson to begin the investigation.
Also, Staff Sergeant Bob Gray, south district commander, Hay River, and Constable Wes Heron, Fort Simpson detachment, met with Mr. Menicoche on April 1, 2004, to discuss the progress of this public complaint investigation. The RCMP is working with other government agencies and the community to address the issue of communication with Willow Lake River.
I will forward to Mr. Menicoche the RCMP's formal response when it is available and provide a copy to the House at the earliest opportunity.