Cutler, Ontario – Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Minister Bernard Valcourt congratulates the Serpent River First Nation on the start of construction of a new water treatment plant.
The Government of Canada invested more than $12.36 million towards the construction of this $13.36 million new water treatment plant. Serpent River First Nation invested approximately $730,000.
Quick facts
- The scope of work includes constructing a new raw water intake, a 427-square metre water treatment plant, an above-ground storage reservoir, and upgrades to the existing water distribution system. The construction stage of the project is expected to be complete by July 2015.
- Once built, the new water treatment plant is expected to provide water for 376 people in 160 homes.
- Through the Economic Action Plan 2014, the Government of Canada is delivering on its commitment to address water and wastewater issues by extending the First Nation Water and Wastewater Action Plan (FNWWAP) with further investments of $323.4 million over the next two years.
- The Safe Drinking Water for First Nations Act, which received Royal Assent earlier last year, will enable safe on-reserve drinking water and wastewater treatment by developing much needed regulatory safeguards.
Quotes
"Improving water quality in First Nation communities is a priority for our Government, which is why I am extremely pleased that work on the Serpent First Nation water treatment plant has begun. Our Government will continue working with First Nations to improve water and wastewater infrastructure in their communities. In fact, Economic Action Plan 2014 includes $323.4M to improve water and wastewater infrastructure on First Nation communities."
- Bernard Valcourt
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
"This project is very important for the growth and sustainability of our community. This new water treatment plant will bring real change and improvements to the quality of life of the people living here; it will also resolve a long standing issue of the human right to potable water for our families in our community."
- Chief Isadore Day, Wiindawtegowinini
Serpent River First Nation
src:news.gc.ca