Local MP passes motion for federal water strategy

The Quebec Liberal caucus leader’s motion, aimed to protect and enhance Canada’s water resources, was the last to be voted on before the end of Parliament’s spring session. He said federal politicians have shied away from a “complicated” issue. “They haven’t made the effort to get a handle on it,” Scarpaleggia said. “I’ve been thinking about this issue of a federal water policy for quite a long time.”

The Kirkland resident said water is a concern for over 20 federal departments, including fisheries and foreign affairs. It also touches different levels of government.

Canada’s last national water strategy was in 1987. “The issue is so complicated, it’s so multi-jurisdictional,” he said in a phone interview with The Chronicle.

Scarpaleggia established a Liberal study group to examine the issue about 18 months ago. Members of the “water caucus,” which includes senators and MPs, met with experts.

He decided to move a step further and submitted the motion in October.

Last Wednesday, all parties supported it except for the Bloc Québécois.

He also submitted an amendment requesting the institution of a secretary of state - or junior cabinet minister - responsible for water, who would report to the minister of environment.

Conservative and Bloc Québécois MPs defeated the amendment, but Scarpaleggia says he will continue to press the issue. “The seed has been planted and I’m going to keep pushing this thing,” he said. — Andy BlatchfordŽ