Mr. Speaker, on this World Water Day we need to remind ourselves that water constitutes an inestimable resource for humankind and is, contrary to long-standing belief, one that can be exhausted.
Quebec is a land of water, with a million water courses, including 700,000 lakes and numerous underground basins. Although our population represents less than 1% of the total population of the globe, we have 16% of the world's soft water reserves. Economically, it is essential, and biologically, it is vital. We have a duty to protect it.
Water is under attack from all sides, whether as the next target of private interests, under direct threat from the federal government, or the object of contamination of all kinds. Just ask the people of Shannon, of Lake Saint-Pierre, of the North Shore, of Walkerton. Water is vital to us and we must act accordingly.
World Water Day reminds us of how indispensable water is and of our obligation to protect it.