Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the United Nations had designated March 22nd the World Day for Water. Since 1993, World Day for Water has drawn attention to the importance of water to human life.
It is important to consider how we must protect the world's water resources. Water is an important part of our daily lives. We need water to drink, for cooking and for cleaning. Water is also needed for agriculture and industry.
In Canada, we are fortunate to have an abundance of water to meet our daily needs. Sometimes we take water for granted. Other countries are not so lucky. There are many people around the world who do not have access to safe and affordable drinking water. Many more do not have access to basic sanitation for their water sources.
Between three and four million people die every year from water-borne diseases. This is not always a problem somewhere else. As Canadians, we must keep that in mind.
The Northwest Territories has an abundance of fresh water resources, but this does not mean we will always have access to clean, safe water supplies. Recently, problems with THMs in Fort McPherson's water supply show us that we must continue to take great care of our water resources in the Northwest Territories.
The World Day for Water recognizes the importance of safe water in our lives. The theme for this year was "Water of the 21st Century". This theme was chosen because we have to make decisions on how we protect future water resources. Drinking water must be treated to protect us and keep everyone healthy. Waste water must also be treated before it is disposed, to avoid pollutants in our water supplies.
Careful and effective management of our water supply today...