#genuinely i fucking hope ISC can get their shit together and get this community some clean fucking water

[godbirdart]

the fact that Neskantaga is still under a boil water advisory in 2024 is driving me insane.

for context: Neskantaga First Nation is a small community in Ontario 436 km [270 miles] northeast of Thunder Bay and 180 km [111 miles] northeast of Pickle Lake. They have been under a boil water advisory since February 1995 - nearly 30 goddamned years.

Progress on a new water treatment plant has been ongoing. Neskantaga First Nation's original water treatment plant was built in 1993, but the journey for a new one has undergone numerous issues involving the government and contractors, as well as shoddy construction and hazardous spills.

Construction is still listed as underway with no ETA on the advisory being lifted.

The Canadian Government perpetually drops the ball when it comes to safe water on reserves. In December 2023 the government introduced Bill C-61. It addresses clean drinking water across all First Nations communities, but Chief Chris Moonias of Neskantaga First Nation, the nation with the longest boil water advisory in the entirety of Canada, wasn't even consulted. The bill itself has also been met with much skepticism and criticism due to its vague wording, and rightfully so.

That said, despite the hells of the government there is some positive to be had. 144 long-term drinking water advisories have been lifted between November 2015 and January 2024.

I like to hope the 2021 report from the Auditor General regarding Indigenous Services Canada and its shortcomings will give them insight on how to better optimize their management going forward. So far 2022 and 2023 has continued the downward trend with fewer and fewer long-term water advisories, but it's important to know if these completed projects are successful in guaranteeing clean water to these communities for the long-term future. Is ISC actually following up with proper support.

On February 1, 2024 Indigenous Services Canada posted a statement that the Minister of Indigenous Services has met with Neskantaga First Nation Chief Christopher Moonias to discuss resolving the water advisory and create a 12-point action plan. I know it's asking a Lot within 11 months, but I really really hope the Neskantaga community won't see their long-term water advisory hit 30 years.

In the meantime, Neskantaga First Nation receives donations through Gathering of Rivers for Community Care. If you're able, please consider donating.

thanks