Canadian Armed Forces heading to Manitoba First Nation dealing with water, sewage issues

Ottawa is deploying a team from the Canadian Armed Forces to Pimicikamak Cree Nation to help with water and sewer issues.

The federal government is sending the Canadian Armed Forces to a Manitoba First Nation dealing with frozen pipes and sewage backups in the wake of a nearly week-long power outage.

Minister of Emergency Management Eleanor Olszewski announced Friday that a specialized team from the armed forces will be deployed to Pimicikamak Cree Nation to help with water and sewer treatment, power generation, and project management.

“The Government of Canada remains committed to supporting repairs and the safe return of residents to their homes, schools and essential services as quickly as possible,” Olszewski said in a statement.

The deployment comes following requests from the First Nation and the Manitoba government.

Power to the community, home to 7,000 people and roughly 530 kilometres north of Winnipeg, was cut off on Dec. 28. It was restored several days later, but due to significant cold weather, pipes ruptured in homes.

Approximately 4,000 people evacuated the community.

Federal and provincial leaders toured the community on Wednesday, and more heaters and plumbers will be heading to assist with repairs.

With files from The Canadian Press