Debert Fire Hall hosting community support during hearings

DEBERT - Another supportive community space, this time in Debert, is being offered as the Mass Casualty Commission resumes its hearings.

The idea is to help community members with a grassroots approach during this difficult time, as the hearings retrace the route of the gunman in the April 2020 attacks. Some local municipal councillors have previously expressed that this kind of support is preferred by some residents.

The province-run initiative was originally proposed by the Municipality of Colchester. Community drop-ins took place earlier in March at the Bass River Community Victoria Hall during the week of hearings regarding how events unfolded in Portapique.

Like the previous drop-in, residents will be able to connect informally with other community members. There will be tea and coffee and a community navigator with resources to help those who need the comfort, says a release from the municipality.

The Debert Fire Hall community space (34 Carter Road) started March 30 and continues:

Thursday, March 31, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday, April 1, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The next hearings regarding communities are March 28 (Debert and 3238 Hunter Rd.), March 29 (Highway 4 – Wentworth and Glenholme), March 31 (Plains Road, Debert), April 4 (Onslow), April 11 (Shubenacadie) and April 12 (Highway 224 and Enfield).

At this time, neither the municipalities of Cumberland nor East Hants have plans with the province for any drop-in events.

The Truro community viewing site continues to be offered at the Inn on Prince, where people can watch the hearings streamed live. Mental health support, snacks and beverages are available there for comfort.

A list of mental health support resources and tips is available at: masscasualtycommission.ca/support.