Despite provincial opposition, federal minister planning to table First Nations water bill

The federal government is committed to reintroducing legislation that will guarantee First Nations’ rights to clean drinking water, despite opposition from Alberta and Ontario. The two provincial environment ministers have urged the government to abandon the bill, claiming it will hinder competitiveness and delay project development.

In a letter addressed to federal Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin, Alberta’s Environment Minister Rebecca Schulz and Ontario’s Environment Minister Todd McCarthy expressed their concerns about the impact of the proposed legislation on their provinces. They called on Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government to steer away from policies that could harm specific provinces without any tangible benefits to the environment.

One of the bills in question is C-61, which aimed to ensure that First Nations have access to clean drinking water and can protect fresh water sources on their lands. Although this bill did not pass into law before Parliament was prorogued, Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty is determined to see it through.

In a statement, Minister Gull-Masty’s spokesperson emphasized the government’s commitment to providing clean water for all Canadians. The new government intends to introduce legislation affirming First Nations’ human right to clean drinking water in the upcoming fall session. The Minister calls on all levels of government to support this crucial legislation in the spirit of reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.

According to data from Indigenous Services Canada, there are still 37 long-term drinking water advisories in effect across the country, with the majority of them located in Ontario. It is clear that there is a pressing need to address this issue and ensure that all communities have access to safe and clean drinking water.

As the government moves forward with its plans to reintroduce legislation on clean drinking water, it is essential for all stakeholders to come together and support this important initiative. By working collaboratively, we can make significant strides towards ensuring that First Nations have the fundamental right to clean water on their own lands.