The Canadian federal government takes the city of Winnipeg off the hook for using Lake Winnipeg as a toilet bowl.
It is great to have friends in high places and especially those friends who have the influence to make things happen.
So who pays? Well, as taxpayers, all of us. Winnipeg taxpayers, however, will pay twice.
And what about the victim, Lake Winnipeg? Is there retribution? Has justice been served, blind as justice is?
Will this "clearing of charges" now set a precedent for any future pollution occurrences? Could this now be perceived as an open invitation for unlimited amounts of phosphorus application, to be tolerated as acceptable, regardless of the consequences?
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And what about the Devils Lake outlet? Shouldn't our neighbors to the south be offered absolution for their pending action, for their survival? It is reported, even now, that because of high water conditions, both the Assiniboine and Red Rivers are being injected with raw sewage on a limited scale. Would the Devils Lake drainage project be any more damaging to Lake Winnipeg?
There are so many questions that need to be addressed and answered.
Lake Winnipeg deserves all the respect and recognition that we are capable of providing; a commitment that should never be abused or taken lightly.
John Fefchak
Virden, Manitoba
