Premier Legault announces Blue Fund to protect lakes and rivers in the Outaouais 

Sophie Demers 

With the Quebec provincial election fast approaching, the Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ) along with the Quebec Premier François Legault announced the creation of the Blue Fund which will be used to protect lakes and rivers in the Outaouais. The Blue Fund will be a commitment to the environment from the CAQ throughout their next mandate, if elected. Overl have a budget of $650 million for their next mandate, if re-elected. 

The CAQ states that the fund will be funded in part by increased fees from industries that use the water. The party highlights that this measure will reduce the amount of water used by industries leading to less water waste. According to the party, the recurring and transparent funding will ensure the protection of Quebec’s water. 

“When we see the drought in France, the United States, Mexico, we realize how strategic this water is for the future. For me and the entire CAQ team, protecting our lakes, rivers and drinking water sources has become a priority,” said Legault. 

This future funding will be able to enhance and support new initiatives and major projects. These projects can include upgrading sanitary facilities, improving funding for the Voluntary Lake Monitoring Network, creating a shoreline clean-up program, combating invasive species, preventing water shortages, getting a better understanding of the composition of municipal waste, and supporting farmers in the revegetation of riparian strips. 

“More than ever, we are becoming aware of the importance of the fragility of our marshes, lakes and rivers as our natural environment is affected by climate change,” said Robert Bussière, Member of Parliament for Gatineau. “I am therefore delighted with the creation of this new fund, which will give all Quebecers an additional tool to ensure that our aquatic ecosystems are protected and that all our communities today and in the future have access to quality water.”