Ottawa, Ontario (July 6, 2011) - The Governments of Canada and Ontario are pleased to announce the Canada-Ontario First Nations Pilot to Improve Drinking Water Quality, a new joint three-year initiative harnessing innovative and alternative drinking water systems to improve water quality in Ontario First Nation communities. The Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation (OFNTSC) is also supporting this initiative through the provision of technical support to First Nations and Tribal Councils.
"Together, we are taking an important step towards improving on-reserve water by looking at innovative solutions that address the needs of First Nation communities," said the Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development. "This pilot project is a concrete example of our ongoing commitment to working with First Nations and other stakeholders to ensure that these communities have access to improved drinking water."
This initiative will support a select number of projects in Ontario First Nation communities, which may benefit from the use of innovative approaches in ensuring a high quality of drinking water for residents. The projects will pilot the use of innovative processes, technologies and strategies to determine if there are sustainable and economically viable options that can improve access to drinking water in these communities.
"Innovative approaches and technologies can play a key role in ensuring clean, safe drinking water," said John Wilkinson, Ontario Minister of the Environment. "We are committed to working with First Nations to protect their drinking water in ways that work for them".
The Government of Canada will provide a total of $5 million in funding. The Ontario government and the Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation will provide technical support and training.
The First Nation communities selected for participation in this pilot project will be responsible for commissioning appropriate design and technology solutions for their communities through a Request for Proposals (RFP) process.
"Innovative water technology combined with expert technical support will help First Nations deliver quality drinking water" said Bob Howsam, Executive Director, OFNTSC.
"Innovation in the delivery of safe drinking water to First Nations will improve the quality of life for residents in First Nations. The OFNTSC is pleased to support First Nations in their attainment of innovative water technology through the Canada-Ontario First Nations Pilot to Improve Drinking Water Quality."
Backgrounder - Canada-Ontario First Nations Pilot to Improve Drinking Water Quality
Minister's Office
Michelle Yao
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
Ontario Ministry of Environment
Jonathan Rose
Minister's Office
416-314-6739
Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation
Colin French
Communications Officer
416-651-1443 ext. 256
