Kenora MP Eric Melillo says he’s elated to see Grassy Narrows First Nation reach an agreement with the Canadian government to fund a $19.5-million Mercury Treatment Centre.
The Conservative member says the deal is a long time coming and he’s relieved that those suffering the devastating effects of poisoning will soon be able to access support close to home.
Melillo has been vocal in his support for the facility, noting the day after he was elected MP, his first meeting was with Grassy Narrows Chief Rudy Turtle.
Melillo states he’s had a number of productive conversations with Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller and his staff, as well as with Chief Turtle, and he’s thanking them for collaborating and working tirelessly to secure the investment.
He adds used his first speaking opportunity in the House of Commons to call on the government to make good on their promise to the community.
Melillo adds he’s continues to be in close contact with the Ministry of Indigenous Services, advocating for this project to be prioritized.
Meantime, Kenora-Rainy River MPP Greg Rickford stresses he’s pleased to hear about the federal agreement.
The Northern Development and Indigenous Affairs Minister says Ontario will continue to work with the feds and the community to provide technical advice on service planning for the proposed health facility.
Rickford says “Our government takes the challenges faced by the people of Grassy Narrows and Wabaseemoong very seriously. That’s why one of our first acts as a new government was to index mercury disability benefit payments to people who hadn’t seen increases for inflation in as many as 30 years. As a result, people saw their monthly payment amounts more than double beginning November 2018, in addition to retroactive payments.”
He adds “We want to achieve real progress in developing solutions that lead to improved outcomes and create prosperous, healthy and strong communities for the people who live there.”
No timeline has been released on the construction of the Treatment Centre.
I am pleased the federal government has signed an agreement to move forward on their commitment to the people of Grassy Narrows. Ontario will continue to work with federal gov and Grassy Narrows to provide support and service planning for the treatment facility. https://t.co/h0eJ1CWWb2
— Greg Rickford (@GregRickford) April 3, 2020
I am relieved that those suffering the effects of mercury poisoning will soon be able to access support close to home. I'd like to thank @MarcMillerVM and Chief Rudy Turtle for collaborating and working tirelessly to secure this investment. @GrandCouncilT3 #GrassyNarrows pic.twitter.com/7cjwMWuJZj
— Eric Melillo (@Eric_Melillo) April 3, 2020
