Statement by Ted Arnott, MPP Wellington-Halton Hills
Nestlé's Permit to Take Water application in Puslinch Township
As I have said many times, protection of our groundwater is essential for future generations. I believe the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) must take seriously its responsibility for approving water-taking permits. No water-taking permit should be approved unless hydrogeological studies prove that groundwater resources will not be depleted and neighbouring wells will not be negatively impacted.
The MOE should carefully monitor large-volume water users to ensure that they do not exceed the amount of water they are permitted to draw. If they are taking more water than is permitted, their permits should be revoked.
On many occasions over the past year, I have expressed interest in Nestlé's Permit to Take Water application at its Puslinch Township property. I have discussed this issue with Township of Puslinch officials; I have toured Nestlé's water bottling plant; and I have met with the president of Nestlé Waters Canada to express that interest.
Yesterday, I spoke with staff of the Ministry of the Environment and was briefed on the Ministry's decision to approve the renewal of Nestlé's existing well permit. I noted that there are numerous conditions on the permit, and that the Ministry is requiring extensive surface and ground water monitoring, as well as additional testing in the summer months.
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