Reliable infrastructure is key to building stronger communities. Significant weather-related disasters triggered by climate change can pose a serious threat to health and safety of Canadians, create interruptions in essential services, and cause significant disruptions to local economies. In the North, the effects of a melting permafrost and severe and frequent droughts are having a major impact on communities and residents. As an increasing number of Canadians experience natural hazards and extreme weather events, the Government of Canada continues to make important investments to help communities across Canada mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Today, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada; the Honourable Daniel Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs; the Honourable P.J. Akeeagok, Premier of Nunavut; and His Worship Kenny Bell, Mayor of the City of Iqaluit, announced federal funding of over $214 million through the Disaster and Mitigation Adaptation Fund to ensure the safety and long-term sustainability of Iqaluit's water supply system.
This project will improve the City of Iqaluit's water supply system through the excavation and creation of a new reservoir adjacent to Lake Geraldine as well as improve the city's water distribution system. The new reservoir will draw water from one of two long-term alternative sources, providing the required capacity to meet the increasing needs of the population and support economic growth. The new and upgraded infrastructure will be designed and built to mitigate current and future impacts of climate change.
Once complete, it is expected that all residents in the City of Iqaluit will have reliable access to clean drinking water through this improved supply, storage, and major distribution infrastructure components. Additionally, the project will significantly reduce economic losses and disruptions in the community created by water shortages.
Federal funding is conditional on fulfilling all requirements related to consultation with Indigenous groups and/or environmental assessment.
