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Feds Taking Action To Avoid Water Crisis In Attawapiskat

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With the remote northern community of Attawapiskat under a State of Emergency due to contaminated water, the federal government insists it is taking action.

Indigenous Services Minister Seamus O’Regan explains there is already $1.5-million set aside for water system improvements and the equipment is on-site and ready to install

O’Regan says “We have two community members who are already trained on how to conduct a comprehensive community plan, so we can begin that work immediately, so both a short and long-term start now.”

He says health care professionals will be on site this week and technical staff should arrive in the First Nation today. (Tuesday)

O’Regan stresses the commitment to improve the water supply has always been a top priority.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Ontario NDP Leader Address Attawapiskat Water Crisis

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NDP leader Andrea Horwath is calling on the Ford Government to take action to help Attawapiskat with its water crisis.

She visited the community last week and was told about how residents fear the water since it gives off noxious gases.

Horwath wants the province to pay for clean, safe drinking water in First Nation communities and then send the bill to Ottawa.

Attawapiskat First Nation declared a state of emergency this month because of high levels of chemicals found in their water.

The official opposition leader says it’s unacceptable people are afraid to bathe their babies in their own tap water.

Horwath calls clean water a basic human right and all levels of government have a responsibility to provide it.

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Concern Remains Over Water Situation In Attawapiskat

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Frustration is growing in Attawapiskat over the cool Federal response to a State of Emergency in the remote northern First Nation.

That’s according to Timmins-James Bay MP Charlie Angus, who recently visited the community.

Angus says families and children are being directly impacted by the chemical contamination in the water.

He says he met with children who get nose bleeds when they were given a bath.

Angus notes the problem facing the community is seriously inadequate infrastructure.

He stresses the entire water treatment plant needs an overhaul.

The NDP member says he also witnessed over 300 families without homes and notes the Liberal government is sitting on a full report outlining the needs and cost of ensuring safe drinking water in the community.

Minister of Indigenous Services Seamus O’Regan was in Attawapiskat on Sunday with Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler to witness the crisis first hand.