Premiers Establish Water Stewardship Council and Water Partner Advisory Committee
June 14, 2011 – Canada’s Premiers have taken an important step towards ensuring long-term sustainable water use in Canada with the establishment of the Council of the Federation (COF) Water Stewardship Council.
Comprised of one senior government official from each Canadian province and territory, the Water Stewardship Council (WSC) will provide information and strategic advice to Premiers on key trends, issues and opportunities related to Canada’s water resources.
“The creation of the Water Stewardship Council is a significant action in advancing water conservation and quality,” said Greg Selinger, Premier of Manitoba and COF Chair. “We need to work together to improve water stewardship in Canada.”
The WSC will promote, coordinate and facilitate implementation of the commitments of the COF Water Charter. The Charter, approved by Premiers in August 2010, recognizes the collective obligation of Canadians and their governments to promote water conservation and protect water quality.
Engaging various water partners is a critical element of the WSC’s work. To this end, the Water Partner Advisory Committee (WPAC) has also been formed, with representation from across Canada and across various sectors. The WPAC will provide advice to the WSC as well as a linkage to non-governmental led water activity.
The Council of the Federation is comprised of all 13 provincial and territorial Premiers. It enables Premiers to work collaboratively to strengthen the Canadian federation by fostering a constructive relationship among the provinces and territories, and with the federal government.
– 30 –
For more information:
Lindsay de Leeuw
Council of the Federation Secretariat
613-563-4066
[email protected]