“Too many First Nations do not have safe drinking water. I want the minister to explain how this clean water bill will help.”

“Mr. Speaker, for far too long, too many first nations have gone without access to safe drinking water, which every community deserves. Could the Minister of Indigenous Services explain how Bill C-37 would strengthen— Some hon. members: Oh, oh!”

“Too many First Nations communities still do not have safe drinking water. I want the minister to explain how this bill will give First Nations control over their water and make sure it is safe to drink.”

“Mr. Speaker, for far too long, too many first nations have gone without access to safe drinking water, which every community deserves. Could the Minister of Indigenous Services explain how Bill C-37 would strengthen first nations’ jurisdiction over water while helping to ensure safe, reliable drinking water for first nations across Canada?”

“This bill gives First Nations the legal power and tools to manage their own drinking water and wastewater. It lets them set their own clean water rules.”

“Mr. Speaker, that was an important question. Bill C-37 would ensure that first nations have the authority and means to deliver safe, reliable drinking water in their communities. By affirming jurisdiction over water sources and by also ensuring drinking water and waste water for first nations, we would be enabling the development of clear, consistent, first nations-led standards. The authority— An hon. member: Oh, oh!”

“I support this bill. It gives First Nations control over their own water systems, sets clear water standards, and provides the money to back it up.”

“Mr. Speaker, the authority, clear standards, historic funding and sustained support are at the core of the bill. I am proud to have ensured that this government, the only government, has pushed forth the bill to support real jurisdiction over water systems, to create standards, and to govern these systems according to their rights, priorities and lived reality.”