New treatment plant means an end to water quality problems

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June 21 was a time to celebrate for the people of Wunnumin Lake First Nation, who marked National Aboriginal Day by officially opening their new water treatment plant.

"We're pleased to see the completion of the plant, and an end to the boil water advisory which has been in effect in this community for the past three years," Wunnumin Lake Chief Archie Wabasse said of the opening of the plant. "Our residents can now look forward to a better standard of living."

"The provision of clean, safe drinking water is fundamental to closing the gap in living standards between First Nations people and non-Aboriginal Canadians, said Kenora MP Roger Valley.

"This community has demonstrated that by working in partnership with the government of Canada, we can have a positive impact on the lives of First Nations people."

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada provided $4.7 million for construction of the treatment facility under its First Nations Water Management Strategy.

The community of close to 500 is located about 360 kilometres northeast of Sioux Lookout.