Since the beginning of August, we have seen two major announcements focused on protecting our waters. On August 4, along with the Honourable Stéphane Dion, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, I was pleased to announce that the Government of Canada will invest $5.5 million to undertake the scientific studies to protect the health of our waters in Lake of the Woods. These watersheds have substantial economic, social and environmental importance, and we are committed to ensuring that they are protected and maintained for future generations.
On August 10, I was proud to announce an investment of $1.7 million over the next two years to the IISD Experimental Lakes Area (IISD-ELA). The information we gather at the ELA research facility will contribute to Canada’s long-term understanding of our freshwater resources, while on a global capacity, the IISD-ELA provides insight on how contaminants, climate change and other factors affect freshwater ecosystems.
This investment is also a testament to the hard work, collaboration and dedication of the leadership teams from several organizations and conservationist groups who sought to save the ELA. I was also pleased and honoured to see the Premier of Ontario, Kathleen Wynne and Manitoba Premier, Brian Pallister, take part in this announcement, which I believe marks the beginning of a long-term and successful partnership that recognizes the value of governments from all jurisdictions, working together for the common good. Together, both these investments demonstrate the federal government’s commitment to the environment, both here at home and internationally.
Bob Nault MP
Kenora
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