THUNDER BAY – All Canadians should have access to safe, clean, and reliable drinking water. To advance the vital work of reconciliation, our Government is delivering on its Budget 2016 commitment to end long-term drinking water advisories in First Nations communities, within five years by investing in on-reserve water and wastewater infrastructure.
On behalf of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, Liberal Indigenous Caucus Chair and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Rainy River, Don Rusnak, announced 18 new water treatment plant upgrade projects in Northwestern Ontario.
This phase is an important step towards providing clean, safe drinking water for the people of these communities. These projects will bring communities closer to ending long-term drinking water advisories, some of which have been in place for more than 20 years.
These projects will include upgrades such as building new wells, evaluating existing septic and wastewater systems, making repairs to existing water treatment plants and constructing completely new plants in some cases.
The following communities in Northern Ontario will receive upgrades:
Animakee Wa Zhing #37, Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek, Biigtigong Nishnaabeg, Kashechewan, Keewaytinook Okimakanak (Sioux Lookout Area Centralize Hub), Marten Falls, Muskrat Dam Lake, Naicatchewenin, Neskantaga First Nation, Nigigoonsiminikaaning First Nation, North Spirit Lake, Northwest Angle No.33, Obashkaandagaang, Sandy Lake, Shoal Lake No.40, Slate Falls Nation, Wabauskang First Nation and Webequie.
