November 28, 2025 - Indigenous Services Canada has determined that the proposed Sandy Lake First Nation - Health Services Building Project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects. The determination was made based on a consideration of the following factors:

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

• impacts on rights of Indigenous peoples;
• Indigenous knowledge;
• community knowledge;
• comments received from the public; and
• technically and economically feasible mitigation measures.

Mitigation measures taken into account for this determination are: 

• Air Quality: Limiting long-term idling, usage of approved dust suppressant as required, and minimizing activities during high wind events; 
• Spills on-site: Equipment will be checked regularly, spill kits to be on site, and there will be an emergency spill response plan and the MECP Spills Action Centre will be contacted if any spills occur;  
• Noise: Equipment to be running properly and maintained regularly, minimize idling, and operate machinery during daytime hours; 
• Archaeological potential: If any relevant artifacts are uncovered, works would temporarily stop in those areas while an investigation occurs with first nation council and elders; Any human remains would be investigated by provincial and federal police forces.;
• Human Health and Safety: Contractor to comply with all safety standards/ regulations and labour laws. Traffic control and signage to be placed where required and community will be informed of any scheduled disruptions; 
• Erosion and Sediment Control: Contractor to devise and implement a storm water management plan. Sediment and erosion control measures to be implemented (i.e., silt fence), stabilizing any disturbed areas, and minimize disturbance outside the project boundary; 
• Vegetation Removal: Clearing and grubbing of the land will be done outside of the breeding bird season to avoid any harm to the birds and their eggs/ young as dictated by the Migratory Bird Convention Act. If vegetation clearing must take place during the breeding bird season, a qualified professional will conduct a nest survey prior to the construction. 

Indigenous Services Canada is satisfied that the carrying out of the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects. Therefore, Indigenous Services Canada 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.