Canada, Ontario First Nation Improve Water System
Kingfisher Lake First Nation staged the official opening of its new water treatment plant in Ontario, according to a Sept. 9 press release.
"Canada is proud to be a partner with Kingfisher Lake First Nation in the construction of the community's new water treatment plant" said Member of Parliament for Kenora Greg Rickford. "With this investment, Kingfisher Lake will have access to clean water, essential for the health, safety, and quality of life of the community members."
"I'm pleased with the new water treatment plant," said Kingfisher Lake Chief James Mamakwa. "This expansion will ensure the availability of water, now, and for future generations as our community continues to grow and prosper."
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada provided Kingfisher Lake First Nation with $8.3 million for the new plant. The First Nation managed planning, design, construction and commissioning of the facility. Changes to operations and processes were also implemented. The new facility currently has excess capacity which will enable it to meet future water demands.
Providing reliable drinking water to residents of First Nations communities is a priority for the Government of Canada. Since 2006, the number of Ontario First Nations with high risk water systems has been reduced by almost 50 percent.
Decisive action is being taken on the new measures identified under the First Nations Water and Wastewater Action Plan that was announced in March 2006.
The Kingfisher Lake First Nation, located approximately 350 kilometres northeast of Sioux Lookout, Ontario, has approximately 490 registered members, 460 of whom live on reserve. The community is accessible year-round by air, and by winter road during the coldest winter months.