OTTAWA – The federal Minister of Indigenous Services has announced the government's intent to reintroduce legislation aimed at guaranteeing First Nations' rights to clean drinking water. This decision comes despite significant pressure from provincial ministers in Alberta and Ontario, who have urged the federal government to abandon the proposed bill entirely.

This week, Environment Ministers Rebecca Schulz of Alberta and Todd McCarthy of Ontario sent a letter to their federal counterpart, Julie Dabrusin, expressing concerns that the reintroduction of the legislation could undermine competitiveness and obstruct project development within their provinces. Their letter emphasized the desire for a shift in policy from Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government, stating, “We are hopeful that this new federal government will move away from policies and legislation that undermine competitiveness, delay project development, and disproportionately harm specific provinces and territories without any quantifiable benefits to the natural environment.”

One key piece of legislation under scrutiny is Bill C-61, which was introduced during the last Parliament. If passed, this bill would ensure that First Nations have access to clean drinking water and the ability to protect freshwater sources within their territories. Despite undergoing a lengthy committee review process, Bill C-61 did not reach a conclusion before Parliament was prorogued.

In response to provincial objections, a spokesperson for Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty affirmed the government's commitment to clean drinking water for all Canadians. Livi McElrea stated, “That’s why our new government has committed to introduce and pass legislation that affirms First Nations have a human right to clean drinking water. To be clear, we intend to introduce this legislation this fall to advance this important commitment.”

Furthermore, McElrea emphasized the shared responsibility of the provinces, territories, and federal government in the reconciliation process with Indigenous Peoples, urging all Parliamentarians and provincial and territorial leaders to support the upcoming legislation to ensure access to clean drinking water for First Nations.

As it stands, data from Indigenous Services Canada reveals that 37 long-term drinking water advisories remain active across Canada, with the majority concentrated in Ontario. This highlights the pressing need for effective legislation addressing the water crisis for Indigenous communities in the country.

This report was originally published on July 4, 2025.

By Alessia Passafiume, The Canadian Press