Mr. Speaker, last week, the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans announced proposed new aquatic invasive species regulations that will create new regulatory tools to help prevent the spread of invasive species, such as freshwater zebra and quagga mussels.
South of the B.C. border, there are a number of infested lakes that, given the popularity of B.C. as a freshwater boating destination, could pose a serious threat to the many pristine freshwater lakes in British Columbia. Make no mistake, invasive freshwater mussels can destroy drinking water intakes. In fact, they can destroy entire aquatic ecosystems. Establishing these new regulations will serve as an important first line of defence at our B.C. border crossing.
I would like to take a moment to recognize the good work of the Okanagan Basin Water Board and the many constituents bringing this important matter forward. I would also like to thank my colleague from Kelowna—Lake Country and the minister for their strong support in ensuring that these new regulations become reality.
Our government will continue to protect the interests of British Columbia from invasive species, and support our environment and infrastructure.