Prime Minister Stephen Harper speaks with Dr. Al Kristofferson of the Lake Winnipeg Research Consortium after announcing funding for a second phase of cleanup for Lake Winnipeg in Gimli, Manitoba on Thursday, August 2, 2012. (FRED GREENSLADE / REUTERS)
Gimli Beach on Lake Winnipeg (CHRISD.CA FILE)
Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced Thursday the second phase to clean up Lake Winnipeg.
While in Gimli, Manitoba, Harper committed $18 million from Ottawa to help transboundary partners understand water quality issues facing Lake Winnipeg and provide scientific research, monitoring and support for community stewardship initiatives to improve the lake’s water quality.
The Lake Winnipeg Basin Initiative (LWBI) will focus on improving water quality for people living in the region as well as for fish and wildlife in and surrounding Lake Winnipeg.
“Lake Winnipeg is a significant driver of the region’s economy that must be protected,” Harper said. “This continued support will ensure that there is clean water for Manitoba residents and visitors to the region for years to come.”
Harper was joined by Public Safety Minister Vic Toews and Selkirk-Interlake MP James Bezan at the Lakeview Hotels and Resorts for the announcement.
