New allegations surface about contractor linked to Neskantaga First Nation water crisis

A joint investigation by Global News, APTN and the Institute for Investigative Journalism has found that a contractor that worked on Neskantaga First Nation’s clean water project is facing allegations of “cutting corners” on other First Nations. Seven First Nations water and wastewater infrastructure projects in two provinces, funded by the federal government, have all involved work by KCL, an Ontario-based firm. Indigenous Services Canada says that the federal department has supplied $90 million in funding for the seven projects. The total received by KCL is unknown. Five of the projects have been peppered with a range of allegations, including excessive overcharges, deficient work, delays and racism. Three of the cases have also triggered legal battles, including for Neskantaga, a First Nation in northern Ontario on Canada’s longest-running boil water advisory. Global News’ Katherine Ward reports on the new allegations against KCL