Regina formally submits proposal to host the Canada water agency
On behalf of the City of Regina and File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council, and with support from a broad range of government, academic, business and environmental organizations from across Saskatchewan, Economic Development Regina has formally submitted its proposal to make Regina home to the new Canada Water Agency (CWA).
The proposal was shared with all 338 Members of Parliament in both official languages.
“We’re excited to take this next step in making Regina’s case for the Canada Water Agency,” Regina Mayor Sandra Masters said. “Regina has a compelling story to tell, and I am very pleased at the regional Economic Development cooperation from all over Saskatchewan, with Saskatoon playing a significant role in this bid”.
“We have the history, partnerships, commitment and unique advantages to seize this generational opportunity and serve all of Canada in this vital role.”
The CWA’s mandate is to work with the provinces, territories, Indigenous communities, local authorities, scientists and others to find the best ways to keep Canada’s water resources safe, clean and well-managed. This spring’s federal budget included a commitment to Developing the Canada Water Agency, which would be located outside the National Capital Region.
“As stewards to the land, we must recognize we are nothing without water,” File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council Tribal Chief & CEO, Edmund Bellegarde said. “Our sacred connection through water braids traditional knowledge found through the First Nations University of Canada and western science found at the University of Regina together that puts reconciliation into action, seeking lasting water solutions for all.”
“We welcome this opportunity to further the conversation on water stewardship but also the prospect of walking the path of reconciliation through collaborative work,” Bellegarde said.
Regina’s bid for the CWA touches on five key themes:
- Support for the Government of Canada’s environmental, Indigenous and economic agendas
- A long tradition of water stewardship, from the First People on this land to the PFRA and well beyond
- A ground-up partnership with Indigenous peoples
- A robust academic foundation in water stewardship, including First Nations University of Canada and the University of Regina, the University of Saskatchewan and SaskPolytech
- A welcoming, supportive community.
“Our economic prosperity has always depended on water. Sectors such as agriculture and food have huge potential for Regina and well beyond – and they rely on sound water stewardship,” EDR President and CEO John Lee said. “Our collective understanding of water issues makes Regina the right choice for the CWA, and EDR is proud to bring the right people together to make our case.”
Canada Water Agency Proposal (English)
Canada Water Agency Letters of Support
To learn more about Regina’s case for the CWA, visit www.chooseregina.com.
