First Nations Water Bill Tabled In Parliament

The federal government has introduced much awaited legislation on clean drinking water for First Nations.

Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu introduced a Bill in the House of Commons yesterday as part of the Government’s commitment to establish new proposed safe drinking water and wastewater legislation in consultation with First Nations.

Aligned with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Bill C-61 would affirm the inherent right of First Nations to self-government, leading to the application of minimum standards for clean drinking water in every First Nation and lay the groundwork for the creation of a First Nation-led water institution to support communities.

It would also hold the federal government accountable to continued funding investments in water infrastructure.

The new legislation replaces the repealed 2013 Safe Drinking Water for First Nations Act, introduced by the then Stephen Harper government.

For details, visit Government of Canada.