The Ministry of Indigenous Services has announced the federal government’s commitment to upgrade and expand the water treatment plant at Sandy Lake First Nation.
The design phase of the project commenced in October 2018 and construction is expected to begin in December 2019. The work will provide a long-term solution to the community’s water needs. Interim repairs to the water treatment plant and distribution system are underway to address the long-term drinking water advisory that has been in place since 2002. It’s expected the advisory will be lifted in December 2018.
“Our government is pleased to be partnering with Sandy Lake First Nation in implementing a long-term solution to the community’s long-term drinking water advisory that has been in place since 2002,” said Minister of Indigenous Services, Jane Philpott. “While upgrades and the expansion of the community’s water treatment plant take shape, I am pleased that the community and Indigenous Services Canada officials will be able to implement an interim solution shortly that will allow for improved access to clean and reliable drinking water to the community, and lift the long-standing drinking water advisory.”
When completed, the expanded water treatment plant will provide safe, clean, reliable drinking water to the more than 2,600 community members that live on the reserve. The federal government will contribute $9.2 million to improve the community’s water infrastructure.
Today on behalf of the Hon. @janephilpott, Min of Indigenous Services, I announced funding to upgrade the water treatment plant in Sandy Lake FN which will bring clean drinking water to residents. Close to ending a 20 yr drinking water advisory-Great news! https://t.co/n0gAyoG5o0
— The Hon. Bob Nault (@BobNaultMP) November 14, 2018
“I am honoured to be celebrating this momentous occasion in Sandy Lake First Nation, along with Chief Delores Kakegamic, council members, and community residents,” said Kenora MP Bob Nault who made the announcement. “It is through their hardwork and determination that will see this project through, and I look forward touring the new facility upon its completion.”
Sandy Lake First Nation is located approximately 225 kilometres northeast of Red Lake, Ontario.
