Significant Developments for First Nation Independence and Water Accessibility in Atlantic Canada
by Patrick Haddad, NSEN Journalism Volunteer (Environmental Studies student at Saint Mary’s University)
In 2018, the Atlantic First Nation Water Authority (AFNWA) was formally established, and one significant goal was to help provide their communities in Atlantic Canada with consistent and safe drinking water. The Government of Canada has stated that it recognizes the Indigenous people’s self-determination and commitment to deliver their own services and address their respected communities’ needs.
A significant framework agreement was signed in the month of June 2020, which founded the process of transferring water and wastewater services from Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) to the AFNWA. Currently, the AFNWA is working to take over full responsibility and operations of 15 Atlantic First Nation communities by the Spring of 2022. The ISC has also provided $2.5 million towards the AFNWA to help cover various operational costs like the training of new staff.
Upon reaching its full management control, it will be responsible and liable for wastewater and water services to over 4500 homes and businesses located in First Nation communities across Atlantic Canada. These communities are where an estimated 60% of all indigenous people live in the region.
This historic framework agreement makes the AFNWA the only First Nations-led water agreement authority in Canada. It is clear, however, that this is just the beginning of a long journey. This perspective is also expressed by the Interim Chief Executive Officer of Atlantic First Nations Water Authority, Carl Yates.
“This is a unique opportunity for First Nations to take control of a service critical to the social, economic, and environmental well-being of their communities. The AFNWA will not be going where the path may lead but instead will be blazing a trail for others to follow.”
The authority’s use of a “hub and spoke” delivery model to engage with First Nations communities and organizations further influences expertise and best practices to inform decision-making processes. This type of model also holds the door wide open to integrate new groups into the authority, potentially leading to the management of water and wastewater services for all Atlantic First Nation communities.
To read more on this plan, check out: