First Nations leaders are voicing strong opposition to the latest federal clean water legislation, claiming it signifies a step backward in recognizing and upholding Indigenous rights. The Assembly of First Nations (AFN), meeting in Ottawa, has expressed disappointment that the newly introduced bill, C-37, appears to dilute language that previously affirmed First Nations' human right to safe drinking water.
The criticism centres on the removal of explicit recognition of the right to clean water, a key demand from First Nations communities. Leaders argue that the previous iteration of the bill, C-61, which did not pass before the last parliamentary session ended, contained stronger protections. Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty reintroduced the legislation, stating it aims to ensure First Nations have reliable access to clean drinking water and to recognize their jurisdiction over water resources. The government has also announced significant funding, totaling $4.6 billion, to support water and wastewater infrastructure in First Nations communities.
However, AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak stated that the bill falls short, offering "weak source-water protection" and ambiguity regarding First Nations lands. She accused the government of a "troubling shift" away from explicit recognition of rights towards provincial priorities. Legal experts and First Nations representatives have expressed concern that the revised wording could allow Canada to continue fighting First Nations in court over water rights, despite decades of struggle and numerous long-term drinking water advisories affecting communities across the country.
The current criticism comes as Canada continues to grapple with the ongoing water crisis in many First Nations communities, a situation that has persisted for decades and is considered a violation of human rights. While past governments have pledged to end long-term drinking water advisories, progress has been slow, with many communities still lacking reliable access to safe water. The AFN plans to debate the new bill further and advocate for improvements through direct engagement with the federal government.
