Ontario First Nation evacuated for second time this summer as nursing station flooded

Neskantaga First Nation was once again forced to evacuate this summer after raw sewage flooded their sole nursing station. The community's chief, Gary Quisess, announced the evacuation on Thursday, noting that residents had previously had to abandon their homes earlier in the month following a wildfire evacuation. Quisess described the situation as heartbreaking, as families are now staying in crowded hotel rooms in Toronto, disrupting their summer plans and annual festivals.

The nursing station, which serves as the community's only health care facility, became flooded due to a contractor's negligence that damaged a septic system. Indigenous Services Canada stated that the contractor was employed through federal funding, and they are in frequent contact with Neskantaga leaders regarding the restoration of the nursing station.

The federal department is focusing on supporting the emergency response while discussions continue around the community's short-, medium-, and long-term needs.