MP Gallant Welcomes Local Efforts for a Cleaner Ottawa River

June 10, 2008

Deep River, Ontario - Cheryl Gallant, MP, Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke, welcomed the official completion of upgrades to the Deep River Water Treatment Plant. The upgrades were mandated by the Province of Ontario. Assistance was provided by the Federal Government through the Canada-Ontario Infrastructure Program. The Federal Government contribution to the plant upgrade was $2,526,667.

“The Upper Ottawa valley is known for its clean lakes and rivers as well as our natural environment. With the completion of the water treatment upgrades, local residents can be confident that the water quality of the Ottawa River continues to be a priority,” stated Cheryl Gallant, MP.

“Recently, I had the honour and privilege of representing Canada abroad, having recently returned from Afghanistan. I think of all the things we as Canadians have to be thankful for. That is especially true when I think of our clean lakes and rivers. The Ottawa River deserves our protection. A clean river is a healthy river. No matter where it is I have been, I am always grateful to return home to the Ottawa valley,” said MP Gallant.

Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke residents lately have been disappointed to read of the practice of some downstream Ottawa River communities to release raw sewage into the river, particularly after heavy rainfall. Despite the limited municipal tax base of many rural communities, to their credit, local councils have made the necessary commitment to clean water.

“It is a source of local pride for the residents of Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke to know that the communities that rely on the Ottawa River for their drinking water are doing their part to keep the Ottawa River clean. That, is the best legacy we can give to our children,” concluded Cheryl Gallant, MP.