Landmark Legislation Moves to Third Reading in House of Commons
OTTAWA, ON – December 10, 2024 – The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Executive Committee has unanimously endorsed the advancement of Bill C-61, a landmark piece of legislation addressing water, source water, drinking water, wastewater, and related infrastructure on First Nations lands. The Bill has moved to its third reading, representing a significant step toward ensuring First Nations communities have equitable access to safe and clean drinking water.
“As the AFN Executive Committee, we recognize that access to clean and safe drinking water and related infrastructure is a basic human right,” said AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. “This legislation is a necessary step toward addressing long-standing inequities. A tremendous amount of work has gone into this draft, and we urge the Government of Canada to prioritize the advancement of Bill C-61 without further delay.”
AFN’s Role in Shaping the Legislation
The AFN has been actively engaged in the legislative process, submitting a detailed brief to the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs (INAN) and appearing before the committee on October 10, 2024. These contributions reflect mandates from the First Nations-in-Assembly, ensuring the voices and priorities of First Nations are front and center.
Key amendments proposed and supported by the AFN include:
- Removal of Adjacency Requirements: Expanding protection zones to better safeguard water sources.
- Protection from Liability: Ensuring First Nations are not held accountable if Canada fails to provide adequate funding or water services.
Progress Made, Work to Be Done
While advancements have been made, challenges remain. Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict highlighted the progress achieved through advocacy and amendments but emphasized the ongoing need for collaboration and accountability:
“Once the Bill proceeds to the Senate, the AFN Executive Committee is prepared to continue advocating to ensure a clear and sustained framework for First Nations to fully implement this legislation.”
The AFN’s continued involvement is critical to ensuring that Bill C-61 not only passes into law but also delivers tangible, lasting improvements for First Nations communities.
Urgent Call for Government Action
The AFN Executive Committee is calling on the Government of Canada to expedite the passage of Bill C-61 and to provide the necessary resources for its implementation. Clean drinking water is a fundamental human right, and this legislation represents an essential step toward correcting decades of neglect and systemic inequities faced by First Nations across Canada.
For updates on Bill C-61 and the AFN’s advocacy work, visit afn.ca.
