Ottawa, Ontario (March 19, 2009) - The Government of Canada is taking action to ensure members of two Innu First Nations have access to safe and effective drinking water and wastewater facilities by supporting the construction of a new sewage treatment plant in Sheshatshiu and a permanent water source in Natuashish, thanks to Canada's Economic Action Plan .

"These investments are key to the health and safety of the communities of Sheshatshiu and Natuashish," said the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Gateway on behalf of the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians. “Strong, viable on-reserve water infrastructure is a priority for our Government as is the well-being of all First Nation communities."

These projects are part of the $165 million for water and wastewater projects included in the $1.4 billion investment for Aboriginal peoples under the Economic Action Plan. The Sheshatshiu project includes the design and construction of a new mechanical sewage treatment plant. In Natuashish, a new water intake piping system supplying water from a nearby river to a pumping station will be constructed, providing a permanent water source for the community.

"Our community has worked very hard to secure funds for a new water sewage treatment plant for many years," said Chief Qupee of the Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation. "We appreciate that Minister Strahl has heard our pleas and is able to announce this investment today. We now look forward to starting the process of getting it built and in operation as soon as possible so that our community can move on and develop as it should."

"We are pleased that the commitment to a safe and permanent water supply for Natuashish, which was originally made as part of the Mushuau Innu Relocation Agreement, is being confirmed today," said Chief Prote Poker of the Mushuau Innu First Nation. "Nothing is more important than the health and safety of our people and this project is a key element in providing that assurance for our community."

The Government of Canada is investing in projects that will provide lasting, sustainable benefits for First Nation communities. The government has made solid progress in improving water conditions on reserves across the country. For example, the number of high risk systems has been reduced by two-thirds. In 2006, there were 193 high risk systems. Today, this number has been reduced to 58. There were also 21 priority communities identified in 2006, meaning they had both a high-risk system and a drinking water advisory. Today, only four communities remain on that list.

The government is also taking decisive action to improve water conditions through the First Nations Water and Wastewater Action Plan.

Costs of projects announced today will be identified following the competitive tendering process.