Grassy Narrows breaks ground on new mercury poisoning wellness centre
After years of lobbying the federal government, the First Nation of Grassy Narrows (Asubpeeschoseewagong Netum Anishinabek) in northern Ontario is breaking ground on a new health centre to deal with its mercury contamination issues.
“At last, my people will have access to dignified care for the terrible impacts of mercury on our health. I honour the past leaders, as well as the many grassroots people, who persevered for so long to make this dream come true,” said Chief Sherry Ackabee in a statement.
“Canada has promised Grassy Narrows that it will be there as a partner to make sure that our community members can come home and receive the quality care they need. I honour Minister Hajdu for reaching this historic milestone towards Canada keeping its sacred promise to Grassy Narrows.”
The community is set to welcome federal Indigenous Services Canada Minister Patty Hajdu to celebrate.
According to a news release, the Mercury Care Home and Wellness Centre will be a “specialized facility dedicated to addressing the community’s unique health needs associated with mercury exposure due to pollutants released into the English-Wabigoon river system.”
Grassy Narrows is located approximately 60 kilometres north of Kenora, Ont.
In the 1960s, a paper mill in nearby Dryden, Ont., poured mercury into local waters poisoning people and animals along the English River and Wabagoon River systems.
The community used the water for drinking and fishing.
According to the government, Ottawa is paying $82 million “to support the total capital cost of the Mercury Care Home’s construction.”
“In addition, the Minister is also committed to supporting the members of Asubpeeschoseewagong Netum Anishinabek living with mercury poisoning now and into the future,” the statement said.
Hajdu said the 30-year agreement comes with $68.9 million “in a trust for the community to support the operations of the Mercury Care Home so that community members will be able to receive care and support close to home and with dignity.”
“Once complete, the home will offer primary and long-term care services for members of the community affected by mercury exposure. The facility will provide holistic care, treatment, and services such as assisted living supports, rehabilitation, allied care, traditional healing and cultural activities and supports, where health professionals from various areas work together to jointly manage patient care.”
Grassy Narrows signed the deal to get the centre built back in 2020.
According to Ackabee, there’s more work to do.
“I call on Canada to take quick action to compensate our people fairly for the ongoing mercury crisis, and to end industrial threats to our land, water, and people,” she said.