Russell Mirasty’s appointment as the new Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan is being met with praise in his home community of La Ronge and is being called historic.

Mirasty, a fluent Cree speaker is the first Indigenous person in the province named to the post.

“Russell has always come home to La Ronge. He’s always maintained that connection to our communities. He’s very down to earth, he’s very approachable,” said Lac La Ronge Indian Band Chief Tammy Cook-Searson.

Cook-Searson says Mirasty will shape the Lieutenant Governor’s office as he is a strategic thinker, who has a lot of experience and knowledge and who can connect with people.

“With a deep connection to Saskatchewan’s Indigenous communities and a background of service with the RCMP, Mr. Mirasty will bring a valuable perspective to a role that has a rich history of service to the people of Saskatchewan,” Premier Scott Moe explained.

Mirasty joined the RCMP in 1976, retiring in 2013. In 2010 he was appointed as the first Indigenous person to lead an RCMP division.

A swearing-in ceremony will take place Thursday, where Mirasty will immediately commence his duties as Lieutenant Governor.

A formal installation ceremony will take place at the Legislature at a later date.

(Photo courtesy of Sask. government.)