The Lake Babine Nation has decided to drug test employees and band councillors in a bid to keep a lid on any drug problems entering the community.
Chief Wilf Adam says the voluntary testing will promote sober judgement among staff and council.
“If they get positive results we have to find a rehabilitation program for them,” says Adam. “Originally we wanted mandatory testing, but from civil liberties and lawyers – they told us we can’t do that – so it has to be voluntary.”
Adam says anyone that tests positive that refuses treatment will be let go. Members of the band will know who declined the testing, says Adam.
With the Band council’s approval, they can now implement the voluntary testing.