Government of Canada to End Long-Term Drinking Water Advisory at White Bear First Nation in Saskatchewan

July 25, 2017 Regina, SK Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada

Everyone in Canada should have access to safe, clean, and reliable drinking water. Today, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, announced new investments that will lead to the elimination of the long-term drinking water advisory in White Bear First Nation.

The approximately $9.2 million will help replace the community’s water treatment system, enabling more than 800 residents to access clean water for the first time in over five years. The project, expected to be complete by December 2018, is part of Canada’s commitment of $1.8 billion to improve water infrastructure and strengthen Indigenous communities.

Quotes

“This investment means that soon, people in White Bear First Nation will be able to turn on the tap and drink the water and businesses and organizations will be better able to provide effective services. We are a proud partner with White Bear First Nation as it continues to grow and prosper. This is reconciliation in action.”

The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs

“The new water treatment facility, with the latest technology, will provide the best quality water for the health of our Elders and children. Having access to clean, safe and dependable water is critical for the long-term prosperity of our community, as we continue to grow in terms of our population and economic base. Whether it’s commercial or residential, long-term planning is impossible without a healthy and reliable supply.”

Chief Nathan Pasap
White Bear First Nation

Quick Facts

As part of its long-term strategy, the Government of Canada is working with First Nations on sustainable approaches to provide safe drinking water for communities, and to prevent new long-term advisories from happening.
Budget 2016 provides $1.8 billion over five years to significantly improve on-reserve water and wastewater infrastructure, ensure proper facility operation, maintenance, and support the training of water system operators, in addition to $141.7 million over five years to improve drinking water monitoring and testing on reserve.
Committing investments over five years allows for long-term planning to improve on-reserve water and wastewater systems.

Government of Canada to End Long-Term Drinking Water Advisory at White Bear First Nation in Saskatchewan

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