FORT McMURRAY – This month, the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, released a progress report on the Plan of Action for Drinking Water in First Nations Communities, outlining improvements made in water quality on reserves across Canada.

Local MP Brian Jean expressed his support of the Government’s action to successfully address and help to resolve these issues:

“Water quality is becoming a serious issue in Northern Alberta and I’m proud to be part of a government that is recognizing the issue and doing something about it. There is still a lot of work to be done, but we are one step closer to ensuring quality water for all Canadians.”

The release of the report fulfills a commitment, made as part of the plan of action, to report on progress on a regular basis.

“In March 2006, our government introduced a water plan of action that significantly changed the way water quality was addressed in First Nation communities,” said Minister Strahl. “We are committed to ensuring that residents of First Nations enjoy the same protection afforded other Canadians when it comes to drinking water.

Since coming to office, we have reduced by over half the number of high risk First Nation water systems.”

This number of high-risk water systems has reduced from 193 to 85. Also in 2006, 21 communities were identified as priorities, which meant that the community had both a high-risk system and a drinking water advisory. Today, only six communities remain on that list.

The complete report can be found at:
http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/H2O/prpf/wpr3-eng.asp