Drinking water lawsuit deadline approaching for local First Nations

FORT NELSON, B.C. — Less than a week remains for some local First Nations to submit a claim to receive money as part of an $8 billion class-action lawsuit against the federal government over unclean water.

First Nations impacted in northeast B.C. include Fort Nelson, Halfway River and Saulteau.

As of the end of January, 140,000 claims had been submitted.

The nationwide settlement covers those impacted by a drinking water advisory for at least one year between November 20th, 1995 and June 20th, 2021, and those eligible may submit a compensation claim.

The deadline to submit a claim is March 7th, 2024.

Additional compensation for specified injuries sustained by following drinking water advisories is also available.

Representatives can claim on behalf of eligible minors, those with mental incapacity and those who passed away on or after November 20th, 2017.

Courts initially approved the settlement on December 22nd, 2021, and includes compensation as well as commitments to fund the construction, operation and maintenance of infrastructure needed to provide clean drinking water.

Resources available:

• Additional information on the settlement and interactive guides and webinars can be found at firstnationsdrinkingwater.ca.
• For questions about the process and assistance with the form, the administrator can be contacted toll-free at 1-833-252-4220.
• For legal questions related to the settlement or assistance with making a claim for specified injuries, class counsel can be contacted at no cost at counsel@firstnationsdrinkingwater.ca or 1-888-265-7589.
• Emotional support is available through Hope for Wellness toll-free at 1-855-242-3310 or online chat at hopeforwellness.ca, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.