An Ontario First Nation is pressing ahead with construction of much-needed water infrastructure, thanks in part to an investment from the federal government.

Last month, Zhiibaahaasing First Nation and Indigenous Services Canada kicked off construction of the community's new water treatment plant and major upgrades to its water distribution system. The nation, which is located on Manitoulin Island, has lived under water advisories for more than 30 years.

The new water treatment plant and expanded distribution system will support reliable access to drinking water throughout the community. The upgrades are part of the broader commitment by Zhiibaahaasing First Nation to invest in the health and well-being of its people by supporting access to safe water for years to come.

"I'm excited we are finally here,” said water plant manager Jonathan Riberdy. “We worked hard together to get to this point and now we can actually move forward to get clean water to our community. This has been many years in the making."

The new water treatment plant and infrastructure upgrades will provide numerous benefits to Zhiibaahaasing First Nation including better water quality, and access to clean drinking water, and construction and maintenance job opportunities for local workers

Indigenous Services Canada is supporting the project with an investment of more than $47 million. ISC is investing $24,902,467 for the water treatment plant and an additional $24,750,193 for the distribution system upgrades. Meanwhile, Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada is contributing $2,500,482 for the distribution system upgrades.