Waskaganish inaugurates new Community Miyupimâtisîun Centre
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On Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay (CBHSSJB) celebrated the inauguration of its new Community Miyupimâtisîun Centre (CMC) in Waskaganish, a modern community facility expanding services and strengthening resilient, community-led care. A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked this historic leap forward for the community and for health services in Eeyou Istchee.
Distinguished guests joined the CBHSSJB for this celebration, including the Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services, Government of Canada; Mr. Paul John Murdoch, Grand Chief of the Cree Nation Government and the Grand Council of Crees; Chief Greta Cheechoo, Cree Nation of Waskaganish; Mr. Daniel Paré, Deputy Chief of the Ministry of Health and Social Services of Quebec; and CBHSSJB Chairperson Ms. Jeannie Pelletier.
The ceremony marked the completion of a major capital project that will improve the quality, range and safety of care. This achievement reflects collective effort and a shared vision that will support the full implementation of the Nisk Model, a new client-centred approach to how care is understood, organized and delivered. The Nisk Model is anchored in culturally grounded, healing-informed practice; developed through strong community-driven partnerships; and supported by integrated care pathways that bring together traditional and western knowledge systems, with continuous engagement to uphold the ᓂᑐᑖᒻᐦ (Nitutâmh) experience.
More than twice the size of the former clinic, the new CMC will progressively offer five essential new services, giving families better access to care in their own community and reducing the need to travel for appointments. These services are: a hemodialysis unit, a point of care testing, a radiology (X-ray) department, a sleep clinic, and a specialized services clinic.
By completing this new facility eight months ahead of schedule, the CBHSSJB delivered a clear demonstration of its capacity, expertise and leadership in managing major capital projects and overcoming the challenges that come with large-scale construction, including a post-pandemic construction and unprecedented wildfires across the territory in 2023.
The day of celebration ended on a high note with a community feast and an evening of lively celebration, featuring fiddle dancers and a special performance by Cree singer-songwriter, Siibii, bringing everyone together to share food, music and pride in this milestone.
Chief of the Cree nation of Waskaganish – Ms. Greta Cheechoo
Eeyou Health starts with us. Miyupimâtisîun starts with us. When we honour and embrace Cree culture, values, and traditions, we strengthen Miyupimâtisîun and the wellbeing of our communities.
Chairperson of the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay – Ms. Jeannie Pelletier
The opening of this facility reflects strong partnerships and the commitment of many hands, strengthening our mission to provide services rooted in Cree values. That is the Power of Working Collectively. Most importantly, it enhances our ability to support our people with dignity, cultural safety, and highquality care in the Spirit of Miyupimâtisîun.
Grand Chief, Mr. Paul John Murdoch - Cree Nation Government/Grand Council of Crees
The inauguration of the new Community Miyupimâtisîun Centre in Waskaganish is a great example of Cree governance in health and wellness. It reflects the Cree Nation’s commitment to provide culturally appropriate, community-driven healthcare and what we can achieve when communities, regional entities, and governments work together in respect and partnership.
Minister of Indigenous Services, Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty – Government of Canada
As a Cree woman from Eeyou Istchee, it means a great deal to be here in Waskaganish to celebrate the opening of the Community Miyupimâtisîun Centre. This centre reflects what we have always worked toward as Cree people: caring for our families in our own way, grounded in our values, our culture, and our knowledge. It stands as a powerful example of what is possible when communities lead and services are designed by and for the people they serve—today and for generations to come.
Minister of Health, Minister responsible for Social Services, Minister responsible for Seniors and Caregivers, and Minister responsible for the Laurentides region, Ms. Sonia Bélanger – Government of Quebec
The new Community Miyupimâtisîun Centre is the result of an exceptional collaborative effort between the Government of Quebec and the Cree Nation. Guided by the Nisk Model and cultural safety, we are creating a care and social services environment that fully respects the community’s identity.
