Indigenous Leaders in Ontario Urge Action on Water Legislation Delays

Post by : Mina Rahman

Leaders representing First Nations in Ontario are expressing their strong discontent regarding the federal government's postponed efforts to reinstate legislation designed to ensure safe drinking water for Indigenous peoples.

During a press conference on Parliament Hill this past Wednesday, Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige stated that the ongoing lack of a successor to Bill C-61, known as the First Nations Clean Water Act, is intolerable. This original bill confirmed the right to safe water for First Nations while acknowledging their governance authority over water resources in their lands.

“First Nations have been patient for far too long. Municipalities do not endure prolonged delays under water advisories,” Debassige remarked. She also cautioned that proposed amendments could undermine the bill, potentially eliminating essential protections for freshwater supplies.

Currently, Indigenous Services Canada reports that 38 First Nations in Ontario are under drinking water advisories, affecting nearly a third of the province's Indigenous communities. Teme-Augama Anishnabai Chief Shelly Moore-Frappier emphasized the legal obligation for new legislation stemming from a class-action settlement in 2021, pointing out that the delays breed uncertainty and frustration.

Chief Gary Quisess of Neskantaga First Nation articulated the ongoing struggles of living under a boil water advisory for three decades, including issues with discolored water and health concerns, especially among children. Quisess also criticized Prime Minister Mark Carney for curtailing community leaders’ speaking time at a recent Assembly of First Nations meeting, expressing doubts about commitments made to tackle water issues.

Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty conveyed in a public statement that securing safe drinking water remains a primary focus, asserting that the government is dedicated to crafting legislation that meets community needs effectively.

Nevertheless, First Nations leaders caution that without prompt and assertive legislative measures, many communities will continue to grapple with long-term water insecurity.