This proposal to change the…

This proposal to change the Ontario Regulation 387/04 (water taking and transfer) under the Ontario Water Resources Act (OWRA) must not be allowed to proceed.

Water bottling is an irresponsible use of water that threatens resources and increases pollution. Most Ontario municipalities have (at the moment) excellent water quality, however water quality and quantity is threatened in Ontario due to overuse and pollution. The government must focus on both preserving water quality and fixing water supply and water quality issues for those communities, like many First Nations communities, that lack access.

The Ministry and Ontario Government must:
- reject the proposed changes to permits and regulations to take water.

- Require owners to apply for a new permit through a public, scientific process that includes comprehensive environmental review and using criteria informed by local Indigenous communities. A permit that has been allowed to expire or has been rescinded is a ‘red flag’ and must require serious review before a new permit is issued.

- Mandatory consultation with Indigenous communities as required by provincial and constitutional law.

- Treat water as a public trust, not a private asset, and require regular review and impact assessments of existing permits and water use.