Lake Winnipeg is Canada’s sixth-largest lake, the world’s eleventh-largest freshwater lake, and its watershed is the second largest in our country. The lake is a vital source of livelihoods to the many commercial fishers that operate on its waters, the majority of whom are Indigenous. Tourism in the watershed generates millions to the Manitoba economy and employs thousands of Manitobans.

Like many of you, I’m passionate about taking strong action to protect Lake Winnipeg. Recently, concerns have grown over its health, as climate instability and other challenges such as algae blooms and the excessive flow of nutrients, like phosphorus, have deteriorated its water quality.

The management of freshwater issues is an important and shared responsibility for all levels of government. Significant efforts, investments and collaboration are required to solve the most pressing issues we face with this incredibly important resource.

Earlier this year, the Prime Minister appointed me as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Environment and Climate Change, where I have a major responsibility for the creation of a new Canada Water Agency. The work of the agency will be critical in coordinating efforts among all levels of government to keep our waters like Lake Winnipeg clean and well-managed.

I am personally committed and resolute in my belief that federal, provincial, municipal and Indigenous levels of government can, and should work together for the betterment of Lake Winnipeg.

Our government is already hard at work on protecting Canada’s sixth largest lake. Last month, I was pleased to announce a $1.18 million federal investment, which will support 15 projects through the Lake Winnipeg Basin Program. A total of $25.7 million over five years has been allocated to this program, which will help improve deteriorating water quality in Lake Winnipeg.

But the federal government cannot save Lake Winnipeg alone. It will take all of us - governments, Indigenous communities, scientists, landowners, environmental groups and citizens all working together to ensure Lake Winnipeg has a bright future for generations to come. Together we can help restore the health of Canada’s “Sixth Great Lake”.

As seen in the Sou'Wester on August 26, 2020.