Media Advisory: The Chiefs of Ontario will hold a press conference to discuss ongoing water issues plaguing First Nations, the 2021 class action drinking water settlement conditions and Bill C-61

Press Release

(Ottawa, Ont.—Dec. 1, 2025) Nearly a third of First Nations in Ontario are currently under a short- or long-term drinking water advisory. On Wednesday, December 3, Chiefs of Ontario will hold a media event to draw attention to this troubling and ongoing national scandal.

The press conference will also serve as an opportunity to highlight the federal government’s inaction on Bill C-61 and its obligations under the 2021 First Nations drinking water settlement, its commitment to end drinking water advisories, and will feature community experiences and perspectives on the pathway forward.

Speakers* include:

• Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige
• Chief R. Donald Maracle, Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory,
• Chief Shelly Moore-Frappier, Teme-Augama Anishnabai (Temagami First Nation)
• Chief Sylvia Koostachin-Metatawabin, Attawapiskat First Nation
• Chief Gary Quisess, Neskantaga First Nation

*Speakers list subject to change

Members of the media are invited to attend as follows:

• Date: Wednesday, December 3
• Time: 9:30 a.m.
• Location: Room 135B, West Block, 111 Wellington Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0A4.
• Teleconference (listen only): Dial-in number: 613-209-3054 / Webinar ID: 632 0963 6412 / Passcode: 465756

Media accreditation is required for in-person attendance. Please contact the Canadian Parliamentary Press Gallery to request access.

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The Chiefs of Ontario supports all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction, and their chosen expression of nationhood. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook, X, Instagram, or LinkedIn @ChiefsOfOntario

Media Contact:

Isak Vaillancourt, Communications Manager
Chiefs of Ontario
Telephone: 416-819-8184
Email: isak.vaillancourt@coo.org

Declan Keogh
Strategic Advocacy Manager
Chiefs of Ontario
Mobile: (514) 519-5375
Email: declan.keogh@coo.org

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