The federal government has introduced a bill to regulate drinking water on First Nations reserves.
This proposed legislation, tabled in the Senate by Indian Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl, follows from the recommendations made by the auditor general's office, the expert panel on safe drinking water for First Nations and the standing Senate committee on aboriginal peoples.
The proposed safe drinking water for First Nations act would allow for the development of federal regulations for drinking water and wastewater to apply in First Nation communities.
Strahl also announced a two-year extension of the First Nations water and wastewater action plan, at a cost of $330 million.
"First Nations should expect, as do all Canadians, to have access to safe, clean drinking water," Strahl said.
Although legislation for drinking water and wastewater has been developed in provinces and territories, it does not exist in First Nation communities.
Since provinces and territories have existing regulations governing drinking water and wastewater, the federal government would review them to identify areas that can be adapted into federal regulations. At the same time, the law would allow for regional differences and recognize the unique water challenges facing many First Nation communities.
The proposed bill would: