OTTAWA - Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that his government will introduce clean drinking water legislation for First Nations in the spring of 2026. This marks a delay from the previously promised timeline of this fall. Carney made the announcement during his address at the Assembly of First Nations gathering in Ottawa.

In his speech, Carney emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating he will convene a joint meeting with federal, provincial, territorial, and First Nations leaders early in the new year. He noted that coordination on water solutions will be a key focus of the agenda.

Earlier this year, Minister of Indigenous Services Mandy Gull-Masty indicated plans to reintroduce legislation aimed at ensuring First Nations' right to clean drinking water. This was despite opposition from Alberta and Ontario, who called for the bill to be scrapped.

Carney highlighted that since 2016, investments exceeding $7 billion have led to the lifting of 85 percent of drinking water advisories on reserves. He reiterated his government's commitment to eliminate the remaining 38 advisories, with an additional allocation of $2.3 billion set aside in Budget 2025 for this initiative.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the necessity for a more sustainable solution, stating it must be supported by an appropriate funding mechanism and involve the provinces and territories in the discussions.

This announcement comes as part of ongoing efforts to address water quality issues faced by First Nations communities across Canada.