I congratulate those provincial governments that have already put in place moratoriums, or are in the process of developing policies or legislation. They worked swiftly when the issue surfaced last year. The proposed Accord ensures that we as Canadians will decide how to protect our water, for environmental reasons not for trade reasons. An environmental approach is the most effective and secure means. Let me close by stressing how important this issue is to all of us.
Water is the blood of the earth.
It is vital to human health, to ecosystems, and to agriculture and industry. Canadians care deeply about their environment. They understand that some mistakes cannot be undone. They are concerned that bulk water removal could threaten the quality and quantity of Canada's life-giving freshwater resources. Our rivers, lakes and watersheds go to the heart of our national identity.