Water

Context

Wetlands and other water bodies are a prominent feature of Nunavik’s geography. The quality of these environments is a constant concern because of its implications for the region’s community drinking water supply and the need for adequate infrastructure. Community growth poses challenges in terms of conserving and improving essential services in the northern villages.

General Position

As part of its mandate, the KEAC analyzes strategies and regulations on drinking water quality in Nunavik and supports northern communities by collaborating on drinking water projects.

Bill 132 - An Act respecting the conservation of wetlands and bodies of water

Bill 132- An Act respecting the conservation of wetlands and bodies of water, proposes to reform the legal framework applicable to wetlands and bodies of water in order to modernize the measures that ensure their conservation. After its review, the KEAC sent a letter to the Commission des transports et de l’environnement with their comments.

Draft Regulation to Amend the Regulation respecting the Quality of Drinking Water

After analyzing the draft Regulation to amend the Regulation respecting the Quality of Drinking Water, the KEAC felt that that the main amendments recommended for the territory north of the 55th parallel would be beneficial for Nunavik. However, the KEAC provided feedback on some of the suggested amendments regarding the analysis method, transportation of disinfectants and the training of northern operators.

Position paper on the draft Regulation to Amend the Regulation respecting the Quality of Drinking Water (August 2011)

Residential Drinking Water

The KEAC has continued to support the communities to maintain the quality of drinking water in residential tanks in Nunavik. It has encouraged the Société d’habitation du Québec (housing corporation) to guarantee water quality and proper tank cleaning for social housing residents.

In partnership with the Kativik Municipal Housing Bureau and the Kativik Regional Government, the KEAC funded a pilot lab study by École Polytechnique de Montréal. The pilot project tested various methods for cleaning drinking water tanks similar to those used in Nunavik.

Water Tank Cleaning in Nunavik: A Pilot Study. Final report (July 2009)