The Kashechewan First Nation community is experiencing a notable decrease in activity. While some youngsters are still engaging in hockey games on a snow-covered street, this scene was more prevalent a few weeks ago. Approximately half of the 2,300 residents in this remote northern Ontario settlement have departed for southern cities like Timmins, Kingston, and Niagara Falls due to ongoing evacuation initiatives initiated earlier this month.
The reason behind this exodus is the deteriorating condition of the water treatment facility in the Cree First Nation. On January 4, Chief Hosea Wesley declared a state of emergency following concerns about the plant’s functionality. Residents were advised against consuming the water, leading to a halt in water distribution from the plant. Technicians from Northern Waterworks were deployed to address the issues and restore water supply, pending lab test results to ascertain its safety for consumption.
One local resident, Adrian Sackaney, remains skeptical about the local water quality. He opts to gather large blocks of ice from the nearby Albany River for his family’s use, particularly for bathing purposes. Despite ongoing evacuations, Sackaney intends to stay behind, citing the discomfort of hotel stays for his family. However, his wife and children are likely to join other evacuees heading to different destinations within the province.
Among those who have chosen to leave is Rita Wynne, who was awaiting a flight to Niagara Falls with her grandchildren. She expressed stress over the situation, emphasizing the inadequacy of provided water bottles for families. Wynne, residing with a large family, finds temporary hotel accommodations preferable to the uncertainty surrounding the local water supply.
The water plant’s challenges were further highlighted by consultant Robert Lariviere, who identified pump failures and blockages as key issues. He commended the local operators for their efforts but stressed the importance of equipment redundancy in modern plants, a feature lacking in Kashechewan’s aging facility.
Looking ahead, Chief Wesley has urged increased support from federal and provincial authorities to expedite evacuations and ensure water safety. He emphasized the community’s need for long-term investments and potential relocation to mitigate recurring flooding risks. Indigenous Services Canada has approved funds for planning studies to address these concerns, underscoring their commitment to supporting the Kashechewan First Nation in addressing its infrastructure and relocation needs.