March 26, 2026 – Global Affairs Canada issued its Notice of Determination and determined that the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

This determination was based on a consideration of the following factors: 

• community knowledge; 
• technically and economically feasible mitigation measures. 

Mitigation measures taken into account for this determination are: 

• Groundwater resources (aquifers) are protected from over‑extraction through yield testing, monitoring of pumping rates, and the establishment of community‑based water management controls to ensure sustainable abstraction levels.
• Drinking water quality is safeguarded through regular water quality monitoring, chlorination when required, community training to prevent overflows, and coordination with local authorities to avoid contamination.
• Soils and land stability are protected by limiting excavation to strictly necessary areas, applying proper backfilling and compaction techniques after construction, and planning works to reduce erosion and dust emissions.
• Existing vegetation and trees are preserved by avoiding forested areas during pipeline routing and, where vegetation removal is unavoidable, by relocating or replanting native species to offset environmental loss.
• Air quality and community well‑being are protected by restricting construction activities to daytime hours, using well‑maintained machinery to reduce noise, and relying on solar energy systems to minimize CO₂ emissions from diesel generators.
• Human health and the surrounding environment are protected through strict construction waste management practices, including waste segregation, reuse of excavated soil where feasible, and disposal of waste in accordance with local regulations.
• Prevention of fecal contamination of soil and water resources is ensured through the construction of properly lined and sealed latrines located at a minimum distance of 30 metres from water sources, combined with regular, controlled desludging services.
• Worker and community safety is protected through pre‑construction risk assessments, mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and the application of clear safety protocols during construction and rehabilitation activities.
• Long‑term environmental sustainability and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions are strengthened through the rehabilitation and installation of solar‑powered water pumping systems and the capacity‑building of community committees for sustainable WASH infrastructure operation and maintenance.

Therefore, Oxfam-Québec may carry out the project, exercise any power, perform any duty or function, or provide financial assistance to enable the project to be carried out in whole or in part.