Developing laws and regulations for First Nations drinking water and wastewater: Engagement
Print this Article | Send to Colleague
First Nations communities do not have legally enforceable safe drinking water protections comparable to what's in place in provinces and territories.
In 2013, the Safe Drinking Water for First Nations Act was created to support the development of federal regulations to support First Nations' access to clean, reliable drinking water and effective treatment of wastewater. However, First Nations voiced concerns about this legislation during ongoing engagement since 2018, saying the law was not effective.
In response to these concerns, and aligned with the Safe Drinking Water Class Action Settlement Agreement, the Government of Canada repealed the 2013 Safe Drinking Water for First Nations Act on June 23, 2022. The Government of Canada is committed to developing and introducing new First Nations drinking water and wastewater legislation, in consultation with First Nations.
Following repeal of the 2013 Act, the Government of Canada enhanced engagement with First Nations rights holders to advance the development of a legislative proposal for First Nations drinking water and wastewater. Engagement on the consultation draftFootnote1 of the legislative proposal is ongoing until June 2023.
For more information on the consultation and to participate visit the ISC website
