Investigating Governance Enablers for Water Safety Plans in Mi'kmaq and Wolastiqjyik Communities

Abstract

Despite Canada’s privileged economic status, First Nations disproportionately experience drinking water issues. In the past decade, the focus has shifted from technological to governance-based solutions, in recognition of the complex history of settler-colonialism that has perpetuated inequalities. Water safety plans (WSP) are a preventative, risk-based water management approach recommended by the World Health Organization and implemented worldwide in various contexts. This research investigates how WSP governance relates to a First Nations context, including in the Atlantic Canada First Nations Water Authority (AFNWA). The method of inquiry was a jurisdictional scan of New Zealand and Alberta Canada’s WSP implementation. The data revealed that success depends on organizational culture change towards prevention. This lesson is directly applicable to the AFNWA, but not all governance “enablers” are appropriate in a First Nations context. The study concludes that place-based solutions are necessary and must be co-developed and consider capacity, self-determination, and de-colonizing methods.