Benefits

Your benefits from participating in the Atlantic First Nations Water Authority includes:

First Nations control and capacity building

AFNWA represents the transfer of responsibility from Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) to First Nations. Since AFNWA is owned and operated by First Nations, it will generate long–term employment and career development for Indigenous people in the water and wastewater sector. AFNWA employees are supported with training and career opportunities with fair and competitive wages.

Economic development and planning support

Having clean, safe drinking water and wastewater will encourage small businesses and industries to expand into First Nations communities resulting in economic opportunities.

Sustainable funding

First Nations under AFNWA will no longer be subject to conditional Government of Canada applications for capital funding. They will instead receive the benefits of sustainable funding from the federal government for a long–term capital plan.

Increased operational efficiencies

Consolidating water and wastewater services under AFNWA will increase operational efficiency, providing a consistent level of service to meet the highest standards in Canada.

Improved water and wastewater services

Chiefs and Councils are currently responsible, financially, and legally, for all water and wastewater services in their communities. AFNWA will protect Chiefs and Councils by taking on all liability associated with water and wastewater services. Allowing AFNWA to assume the responsibilities enable Chiefs and Councils to focus on other priorities and issues facing the community.

Risk reduction

AFNWA will apply the best standard of care in operational procedures, while minimizing the risks of system failure or a public health crisis due to unsafe water.

One strong, unified voice

AFNWA represents its participating communities and will be responsible for all aspects of water and wastewater services. With a unified Atlantic First Nations voice, we can deliver quality services and negotiate better contracts and pricing with water services venders, while providing high standards for procurement that maximizes benefits to all communities.