Mercury Justice: First Nations Demand River Cleanup

Two First Nations communities in northwestern Ontario are escalating their fight for mercury justice, pressuring the provincial government to remediate the heavily contaminated English-Wabigoon River System. Grassy Narrows First Nation and Wabaseemoong Independent Nations have been plagued by mercury poisoning since the 1960s and '70s, when a paper mill in Dryden discharged approximately nine tonnes of toxin into the waters.

Decades later, community members continue to suffer from severe health issues, including tremors, insomnia, and cognitive dysfunction. A recent study from Western University indicated that wastewater discharge from the mill is creating higher levels of methylmercury, a more toxic compound. Despite this, the Dryden mill states it adheres to Ontario's environmental standards and is working to incorporate sustainable technologies.

The province pledged $85 million in 2017 for remediation, but leaders estimate this is insufficient. Efforts are underway to support affected individuals, with construction of a Mercury Care Home in Grassy Narrows expected to conclude late next year. This facility will provide essential in-patient and out-patient services.

Despite progress on care facilities, First Nations leaders stress that the fundamental issue remains the contaminated river. They highlight how the mercury pollution devastated local livelihoods, including fishing, and continues to impact generations through illness, unemployment, and the erosion of culture. Community members emphasize that the lingering health and social challenges are a direct result of historical contamination without consultation.