Ontario Ombudsman Paul Dubé visited Neskantaga First Nation last week, where he was confronted by the harsh realities faced by the community, including the longest-running boil-water advisory in the country, which has lasted 30 years. Dubé was met by children holding signs calling for clean drinking water, a medical center, an ambulance, and a new school. Over two days, he toured the community, witnessing mold-infested homes, an inadequate water treatment plant, a police station without telecommunications, and a temporary nursing station that fails to meet the community’s needs. He also highlighted the community’s small, aging school, which only goes up to Grade 8, forcing students to leave home for high school, and the lack of resources for children on the autism spectrum.
Neskantaga, with a population of fewer than 400 people, also struggles with mental health and addiction issues that impact its youth. Despite these challenges, Dubé noted the community’s resilience but expressed deep frustration, stating that such conditions are unacceptable in Canada in 2025.
Both the provincial and federal governments have responded, stating they are working with Neskantaga to address these issues, including the long-standing drinking water advisory. However, Chief Gary Quisses voiced his disappointment with the lack of accountability, highlighting the community’s infrastructure challenges despite being located on mineral-rich land. He called for both governments to fast-track solutions for the community’s urgent needs.
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