Question Period Note: Northern Contaminated Sites Program

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• The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the environment, and developing economic opportunities for northerners and Indigenous partners.
• Through the Federal Contaminated Site Action Plan, my department is working hand-in-hand with territorial governments and Indigenous partners to clean up northern contaminated sites.
• We are doing this work in close collaboration with Indigenous partners are working to ensure this necessary work provides economic benefits for Indigenous communities and protects human health and safety.

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• The Government of Canada works in close partnership with the Government of Yukon and Indigenous partners to advance the long-term remediation plan at the Faro Mine.
• The Government of Canada is focused on obtaining regulatory approvals and managing immediate risks to both human health and the environment at the site. These steps will pave the way for the long-term remediation plan.
• The Government of Canada works closely with the Government of Northwest Territories, Indigenous rights holders and partners, and other stakeholders to advance the cleanup and remediation of Giant Mine.
• Regulatory approvals were obtained in 2020, which allowed my department to begin remediation at the site.
• A new water treatment plant began construction in June 2023 with substantial completion planned for Fall of 2025. Commissioning will take place in 2026.
• The Government of Canada is working with Indigenous rights holders to understand the legacy impacts of Giant Mine and to seek a resolution.
• Mr. Murray Rankin has been appointed as the Minister’s Special Representative and is tasked with providing options for resolution to help address the harm caused by the Giant Mine.