NAN Celebrates launch of Neskantaga First Nation Water Project

NESKANTAGA FIRST NATION (August 17, 2017): Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler joined with First Nation and federal leaders to celebrate the launch of a major water project that will finally bring safe drinking water to Neskantaga First Nation:

“Neskantaga First Nation has been without clean drinking water for more than 20 years, and we are pleased that work on this project is finally underway. The community has overcome many challenges to secure much-needed upgrades that will provide a reliable supply of safe water, and we congratulate Chief Wayne Moonias, Council, and all those who have advocated on behalf of the community throughout this difficult process. A reliable supply of clean water and investments in other vital infrastructure will allow the people of Neskantaga to develop and grow their community, and we hope these investments continue across NAN territory.”

Located in the James Bay lowlands about 450 kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay, Neskantaga has the longest-standing boil water advisory in Canada. The Oji-Cree community of about 300 people has been without potable water since 1995.

The nearly $9-million upgrade to the community’s water treatment plant was approved by Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada in July 2017.

For more information please contact: Michael Heintzman, Director of Communications – (807) 625-4965 or cell (807) 621-2790 or by email [email protected]

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