Harper grilled over Attawapiskat squalor

The conditions at the northern native reserve of Attawapiskat were the focus of intense debate in Ottawa Wednesday.

Interim opposition leader Nycole Turmel urged prime minister Stephen Harper to take responsibility. “He has to take charge. It is his duty to the people of Attawapiskat.”

The plight of the people living in Attawapiskat has been getting headlines this week as the third-world living conditions of some of the 2,000 residents live in have been brought to light.

While he was challenged frequently on the issue from all sides, Harper said the government has been trying to help.
“This government has invested more than $90 million in this community since coming into office. Obviously the results are not satisfactory, that’s why the government has people on the ground taking additional emergency action, and why also we will be announcing additional steps to deal with management problems in this community.”

The opposition wasn’t satisfied with that answer. Either way Ottawa has now ordered third-party management for the community to ensure its urgent needs are met.

Video: Evening News coverage: