8 First Nations filling $4 billion lawsuit regarding Lake Winnipeg pollution

Eight First Nations bordering Lake Winnipeg have united to file a $4 billion lawsuit against the Federal Crown, the Province of Manitoba, and the City of Winnipeg, over what they claim is ongoing pollution of Lake Winnipeg by the city, causing lasting impacts to the eco-system and the first nation people who rely on the areas water.

This lawsuit comes after the massive sewage leak near Fork Garry Bridge in south Winnipeg earlier this year, which saw roughly 221 million litres of raw sewage flow into the Red River, which then ran into Lake Winnipeg.

The eight First Nations all echoed the same sentiment, saying they have been concerned about the health of the lake for years, and how much worse it could get if nothing is done.

“That’s why we’re looking to implement preventative and disaster mitigation plans that should be from the city of Winnipeg, from the province of Manitoba, and first and foremost First Nation leadership be at the table,” said Grand Chief Cathy Merrick, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs.

The claim looks to secure compensation for financial and economic losses incurred due to the pollution totalling, $4 billion, as each First Nation would receive a sum of $500 million.

“It’s sad that in this day we have to file a litigation lawsuit against the government and the municipalities, we should have a formal relationship with them already and just have conversations on how we can protect our waters, but unfortunately they don’t tell us anything that’s happening,” said Interim Regional Chief Sheldon Kent, Assembly of First Nation.

The chiefs did say that while they are pursuing legal action, they are emphasizing the urgency of addressing the pollution of Lake Winnipeg for the benefit of all Manitobans, particularly First Nations who are already seeing the effects.

“Our water is now making them sick, making them ill, there’s an advisory on Lake Winnipeg now for not just our first nations, but for Manitobans to not swim in the water when did that start happening, does this look like reconciliation to you right now, what we’re talking about here,” said Chief Gordon Bluesky, Brokenhead Ojibway Nation, Treaty One.

Minister of Environment and Climate Change Tracy Schmidt addressed the situation and also said that there is an ongoing investigation into the spill which is currently incomplete

“Our government is really serious and absolutely committed to improving the health of Lake Winnipeg, it’s something that we’re committed to and prepared to work together with First Nations and municipalities across Manitoba towards,” said Minister Schmidt.

The city has not responded to requests for comment.