Ottawa is celebrating Indigenous water operators, and renewing commitments to ending First Nations drinking water advisories, in honour of World Water Day.
In November of 2015, the Federal Government made their initial commitment to ending all long-term drinking water advisories in First Nations communities.
Meanwhile, Ottawa says work is underway with 28 First Nations to end the 32 long-term advisories which remain in place.
They also say that collaborative efforts have prevented 245 short-term advisories from becoming long-term since the original commitment.
But, many First Nations are calling for legislative reform to speed up the process, and reflect their unique experiences.
Last month, Ottawa released a consultation draft for proposed First Nations drinking water legislation, which you can find at this link.
In recognition of the work of Indigenous water operators, Ottawa is also calling for nominations for the National First Nations Water Leadership Award.
Nominations are being accepted through March 31st, and can be submitted online via this link.
