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Federal government invests $1.2M in water infrastructure for First Nations of Treaty 3

Ottawa and Wauzhushk Onigum Nation, Ont. – The Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs has announced $1.2 million in investments through the 2016 budget to support eight water infrastructure projects in eight First Nations in Treaty No. 3 and help ensure their residents continue to have access to clean, safe drinking water.

“Through these investments, the federal government is working with First Nations on sustainable approaches to eliminate long-term drinking water advisories by March 2021 and to prevent new long-term advisories from happening,” the ministry said in a news release.

“Today’s announcement will ensure that residents from Treaty 3 will be able to turn on their taps and drink clean, safe water. This is an example of what can be achieved when we work in full partnership. We are a proud partner with these First Nations as they improve the quality of life in their communities. This is reconciliation in action,” said Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs.

“Water is such a vital and plentiful resource in northwestern Ontario and everyone in the region deserves the simple basics of safe and reliable drinking water. The Government of Canada is working in genuine partnership with First Nations in Treaty No. 3 so that on-reserve residents, like other Canadians, have access to a sustainable water supply,” said Bob Nault, Member of Parliament for Kenora.

“I am pleased that the Government of Canada is working toward its Budget 2016 commitment to end long-term drinking water advisories on reserve by March 2021. These investments in First Nations water infrastructure are essential to maintaining a healthy environment and access to clean drinking water for generations to come,” said Don Rusnak, member of Parliament for Thunder Bay – Rainy River.

“Water is the life giver of all living things on Mother Earth. Thanks to the Government of Canada’s investments, steps are being taken to ensure that the Anishinaabe in Treaty #3 can have a basic necessity of life and this sacred resource is protected for future generations,” said Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh, Grand Chief, Grand Council Treaty #3.