Canada appeals rulings that it owes First Nations safe water and housing

Background

In December 2025, Federal Court Justice Paul Favel ruled that Canada owes fiduciary duties, a duty of care and Charter rights on on-reserve drinking water and housing. The federal government is appealing both decisions.

Winnipeg

The Federal Court of Appeal hears the cases on Oct 28 and 29, with chiefs from Shamattawa, St. Theresa Point and Sandy Lake First Nations defending the rulings.

Instead of spending undisclosed sums on lawyers, Canada should honour its Treaty obligations and put that money into water plants and homes.

— Grand Chief Kyra Wilson, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs