Ontario Construction New staff writer
Zhiibaahaasing First Nation has started construction on a long-overdue water treatment plant and infrastructure upgrades, marking a significant step toward clean, reliable drinking water for the community.
Located on Manitoulin Island, the First Nation has endured water advisories for over 30 years. Now, thanks to federal funding, that is about to change. The new facility and upgraded distribution system will provide safe drinking water for residents while creating local job opportunities during and after construction.
“This has been many years in the making,” said Jonathan Riberdy, water plant manager. “We worked hard together to get to this point, and now we can finally move forward to bring clean water to our community.”
The project is backed by Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), which has committed over $47 million, including nearly $25 million for the treatment plant and an equal amount for distribution upgrades. Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada is also contributing $2.5 million to support the improvements.
Upgrades will bring several benefits to the community:
- Improved access to safe drinking water – Enhanced water quality and distribution will provide residents with consistent access to clean drinking water, eliminating reliance on bottled and delivered water.
- Economic opportunities – Construction and long-term maintenance of the infrastructure will create jobs and support local economic growth.
- Long-term health and safety – Reliable access to safe drinking water is crucial for the health and well-being of the community.
“Chief Irene Kells and her Councils over the years have been advocating for clean drinking water for the last 33 years” said BobbiSue Kells-Riberdy, Band Manager, Zhiibaahaasing First Nation. “There are no clear words to express the emotions and joy. To know our children will be able to have clean water to bathe in and to drink. To know it will be safe.
“The worry of skin cancers or other skin issues from bathing will no longer be a worry in the future of Zhiibaahaasing First Nation. To know we now could save a home from fire.
The two-year project is a critical step in addressing existing water challenges but also a demonstration of the dedication and strength of the community in advocating for their needs and well-being.
