Pikangikum First Nation to be connected to Ontario power grid by next fall

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On Thursday, Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, said the government will provide up to $60.2 million in funding for Wataynikaneyap Power to build a 117-kilometre power line from Red Lake, Ont., to Pikangikum.

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“This is the beginning of a vision for the region,” Bennett said in Thunder Bay, Ont. “Opening the door for better housing and future economic development will change the quality of life for the Pikangikum First Nation and bring hope to their community.”

Pikangikum’s chief welcomed Bennett’s announcement, saying the community looked forward to a constant source of power that would allow local services to operate normally. 

“We look forward to a safer and healthier future with power for heat and light on a consistent basis,” Chief Dean Owen said in a statement. “Pikangikum can now move forward with infrastructure, economic development and community growth.”

Construction on the power line and other infrastructure is to begin in the fall, and is expected to wrap up within a year.

The Nishnawbe Aski Nation, a group of 49 First Nations including Pikangikum, said being connected to the power grid will be healthier and cheaper for the community than relying on generators.

“This is a significant step to help Pikangikum advance their community plan for growth and development,” Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler said in a statement.

NAN also called for additional investment from the federal government on housing, fire prevention, and clean drinking water in its communities.

Brennan Doherty, The Canadian Press