Ottawa tables long-awaited bill to improve, protect First Nations water quality – GLOBAL

December 11, 2023

The Liberal government tabled much-anticipated legislation Monday that aims to improve water quality in First Nations communities, improve collaboration on water protection and codify a new First Nations-led commission.

The long-promised bill, which Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu is touting as the result of immense collaboration and knowledge-sharing, would apply a new framework for source water, drinking water, wastewater and related infrastructure on First Nations land.

Hajdu wore a light blue sweater and blue ribbon skirt as she gave a press conference about the bill on Parliament Hill.

“First Nations made it clear they must have the tools and powers to protect their inherent right to clean water,” she told reporters outside the House of Commons.

“And this bill today is the first on a new path of law-making together.”

Assembly of First Nations Ontario regional chief Glen Hare, who appeared alongside Hajdu, stressed the legislation is essential to keep families together.

Read more: https://globalnews.ca/news/10163761/first-nations-clean-water-legislation-canada/