Government pledges $1.2M to end water advisories in 8 Treaty #3 communities
Goal is to end long-term water advisories by 2021
The federal government announced Friday funding for water infrastructure projects with the goal of ending long-term water advisories in eight Grand Council Treaty #3 communities.
Kenora MP Bob Nault and Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, announced the $1.2 million in funding in Kenora. The goal of the funding is to end long-term water advisories in the communities by March, 2021 and prevent new advisories from occurring.
"Our government made a commitment during the election to end boil water advisories, and today's announcement is another step in the right direction, as we work to ensure that all First Nations have access to clean and safe drinking water," Nault said in a media release.
Studies, infrastructure projects to be funded
The funding will go to water feasibility studies in Wauzhushk Onigum, Grassy Narrows, Northwest Angle #33, Northwest Angle #37, Shoal Lake #40 and Obashkaandagaang.
Wabauskang and Bimose, meanwhile, will use their share of the funds for infrastructure projects.
"This is fantastic news for the eight communities in our riding," Nault said. "I am happy to see our government working with the First Nations to end these boil water advisories and improve the quality of life for everyone living on-reserve."