Bill to Ban Bulk Water Exports Introduced

Legislation to manage and protect one of our province's most valuable resources -- our water -- was introduced today by acting Environment Minister Michael Baker.

The Water Resources Protection Act will prohibit the removal of bulk water from Nova Scotia. Global warming and an uncertain future regarding the need for water underlines the necessity for this act, said Mr. Baker.

"This bill bans the bulk removal of water exceeding 25 litres. Our water must be managed to suit our needs first and foremost," said Mr. Baker.

With this act, Nova Scotia joins other provinces which have legislation in place supporting a consistent national approach to managing our country's water supply.

This measure does not apply to those entrepreneurs in Nova Scotia who are currently bottling water under licence and exporting it abroad.

"By processing limited quantities of our own water, we maintain control of the resource and allow for export of a value-added product," he said. "When managed properly, we can sustain our water."

This legislation does not change the way food manufacturers, fish processors and other businesses use water to do business. The minister said this government wants to make it easier for Nova Scotian companies to compete in Canada and around the world.

This act also provides for the use of bulk water in fire- fighting, security or humanitarian emergencies.