WC128 JanFeb2023 - Magazine - Page 6
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“AFNWA will
assume responsibility
for water and wastewater
services for as many as
4,500 households and
businesses located in
up to 17 participating
First Nations.”
6
AFTER AN AGREEMENT was formally signed
in Halifax on November 7, the Atlantic
First Nations Water Authority (AFNWA)
becomes the first Indigenous Water Utility
in the country. This is a significant milestone
as it puts control of water and wastewater
management firmly in the hands of First
Nations.
The transfer agreement was signed by
Potlotek First Nation Chief Wilbert Marshall of the AFNWA, Carl Yates, CEO of
AFNWA, and Patty Hajdu, federal minister of
Indigenous Services. It initiates the transfer of
responsibility for the operation, maintenance,
and capital upgrades of all water and wastewater assets in participating First Nations to the
Indigenous-led AFNWA.
The transfer agreement enables First Nations to officially join the water authority after
receiving approval from their community
members. Once complete, the AFNWA will
assume responsibility for water and wastewater services for as many as 4,500 households
and businesses located in up to 17 partici-
WATER C AN ADA • JANUARY/ FEBRUARY 2023
pating First Nations. This represents approximately 60 per cent of the on-reserve population of First Nation communities in Atlantic
Canada.
AFNWA will support all water and wastewater operators to become certified to operate
their respective facilities and maintain their
certification through continuing education.
The Authority will work with staff to identify
their career development goals and support
them with education and on the job training,
wherever possible. AFNWA will also work
to develop capacity within communities by
hiring trainees and supporting their career
development.
The service delivery transfer agreement
sets out both ISC’s and the AFNWA’s mutual
obligations, accountability, and understanding
for implementation. Through Indigenous
Services Canada, the federal government has
committed approximately $257 million in
funding for this work, including $173 million over 10 years from Budget 2022 that will
provide sustainable funding for operations
WAT E R C A N A D A . N E T
Peggy's Cove: Getty Images
CANADA’S FIRST INDIGENOUS WATER UTILITY
