“We are working with Indigenous groups, provinces, and scientists to protect the environment and health around the oil sands. We will never allow untreated mine waste water into the environment. We are also spending almost 12 million dollars to study the health of people in Fort Chipewyan.”

“Mr. Speaker, it is my first time rising in the House since we have come back, and I am very excited to be back. Issues related to oil sands management are taken seriously. The importance of clean waterways, healthy ecosystems and the well-being of surrounding communities continues to guide federal action in this area, alongside consideration of indigenous rights and interests. Environment and Climate Change Canada is advancing its work on oil sands mining effluent through ongoing structured engagement with indigenous rights holders and organizations, the Government of Alberta, the Government of Northwest Territories, industry representatives, environmental non-governmental organizations and other federal departments. This collaborative approach is intended to ensure that multiple perspectives and expertise inform policy development. A key component of this work is the Crown-indigenous working group, through which ECCC, or Environment and Climate Change Canada, and indigenous partners are working together to examine options related to the management of oil sands mining process water. The outcome of this work will inform recommendations provided to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada. Should a regulation authorizing discharge to water be deemed necessary, it would apply only to mine water that has been treated to strict standards, designed to protect the environment, human health and the well-being of indigenous people. Under no circumstances would the releasing of tailings or untreated mine water be permitted. Engagement with partners and stakeholders will continue as considerations advance, if applicable, through the development of any regulatory measures. In addition, Environment and Climate Change Canada, on behalf of the federal government, jointly leads the oil sands monitoring program with the Government of Alberta, in partnership with indigenous communities and industry. This program aims to improve understanding of the environmental effects of oil sands development through comprehensive ambient monitoring within the region. Monitoring results and reports are made publicly accessible through the oil sands monitoring program portal. In August 2024, the Government of Canada announced that it would make available nearly $12 million over 10 years to support a Fort Chipewyan health study examining the potential impacts of oil sands activities on community health. Nations have begun this work. Canada is dedicated to supporting a community-led, transparent and science-based approach to assessing health risks, with indigenous nations leading decision-making on issues that affect their well-being. Safeguarding the health of communities and the integrity of Canada’s waters and ecosystems is a fundamental responsibility of this government now and into the future. Addressing the risks associated with tailings management requires sustained effort, collaboration and solutions grounded in sound science. This work is ongoing, and the government will continue to consider and be guided by the recommendations that emerge from all of these collaborative processes.”

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“This incident is concerning, and federal officials are working with provincial regulators and Indigenous communities to check the damage. We will enforce federal laws where they apply. We are also working with Indigenous peoples to better manage mine waste, use good science, and protect our water and communities.”

“Mr. Speaker, the incident referenced is deeply concerning, and it reinforces the importance of strong oversight and accountability. Federal officials remain engaged with provincial regulators and indigenous communities to ensure that appropriate response measures are taken and that impacts are fully assessed. Where federal laws apply, they will be enforced. At the same time, this situation underscores the need to strengthen how tailings are managed across the sector. That is why the government is advancing the work, in partnership with indigenous peoples, with a focus on transparency, rigorous science and the protection of waters and communities.”

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