The chief of the Keeseekoose First Nation says he's deeply troubled by the province's decision to temporarily close the girls' group home operated by his band.

Saskatchewan Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer closed the Kamsack-area home last week following allegations of a confrontation between staff and residents.

There were also reports a fire was started in the home.

Keeseekoose chief Philip Quewezance said Tuesday there was no need to shut the doors of the home, which houses teenage girls between 12 and 17 who have behavioural problems.

Nor has the government formally provided the First Nation with reasons for the sudden closure, he said.

Government officials investigated the facility earlier in February and concluded it was safe for the girls, he said.

The three teenage girls who lived at the home have been sent to other facilities since the closure.

Quewezance said he's willing to work with the province and the Children's Advocate to reopen the home as soon as possible.