4 Leaky trade
Canada already permits the sale and export of bottled drinking water. Unfortunately, we lack a comprehensive national water policy and legislation prohibiting the bulk export of freshwater. Last year the Nova Group of Sault Ste. Marie announced it had been given a five-year permit from the Ontario government to draw up o 10 million litres of freshwater a day from Lake Superior for export to Asia A few months later the McCurdy Group of Gander announced it was applying to export 52 billion litres of water a year from Gisborne Lake in southern Newfoundland. Under NAFTA, Canada could lose control of its freshwater once it becomes a tradable commodity. The Nova Group has since withdrawn its application, on the understanding that it will be first in line at Lake Superior if water ever does become tradable; the Newfoundland application is still being considered.
5 What our government should do
First, introduce an immediate moratorium on the bulk export of Canadian freshwater to stave off further export threats. Second, enact legislation prohibiting large-scale water exports. Third, open negotiations to exempt water from NAFTA or, preferably, kill the deal. Fourth, develop a broad national water policy that ensures ownership and control of Canada's freshwater remains in public hands. Fifth, join with other counties and NGOs worldwide to promote more efficient use and maintenance of local freshwater.
Canadian Perspectives, Winter 1999