CANADA’S ECONOMIC ACTION PLAN DELIVERS PERMANENT WATER TREATMENT FACILITY FOR SIX NATIONS IN ONTARIO

March 19, 2009

Ottawa, Ontario(March 19, 2009) –  The Government of Canada is taking action to ensure members of the Six Nations of the Grand River First Nation have access to safe and reliable water facilities by supporting the construction of a new water treatment plant for the community. This water investment is thanks to Canada’s Economic Action Plan.  

“We are working to ensure the water and wastewater needs of First Nations are met,” said Phil McColeman, Member of Parliament for Brant on behalf of the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians. “With this investment Six Nations will have access to clean water, essential for the health and safety of the community today and in the future.”

This project is part of the $165 million for water and wastewater projects included in the $1.4 billion investment for Aboriginal peoples under the Economic Action Plan. The project will include the construction of a new water supply and treatment plant sized to service the First Nation’s growing population.

"This is an important day for the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory,” said William K. Montour, Elected Council Chief, Six Nations. “This new water treatment facility will create a stable source of clean water and will greatly enhance the quality of life within Six Nations. It is a step in the right direction and the efforts of all involved to make this happen are greatly appreciated. Together great things can happen."

The Government of Canada is investing in projects that will provide lasting, sustainable benefits for First Nation communities. The government has made solid progress in improving water conditions on reserves across the country. For example, the number of high risk systems has been reduced by two-thirds. In 2006, there were 193 high risk systems. Today, this number has been reduced to 58. There were also 21 priority communities identified in 2006, meaning they had both a high-risk system and a drinking water advisory. Today, only four communities remain on that list.

The government is also taking decisive action to improve water conditions through the First Nations Water and Wastewater Action Plan.

Costs of projects announced today will be identified following the competitive tendering process.