19/03/2008

A senior government minister is backing an innovative environmentally sound regional campaign to help the world’s poorest people.

Phil Woolas, Minister for the Environment, is supporting the Northumbrian Water campaign, Drink tap – save lives! and the Minister is urging North East restaurants, cafes and bars to sign up. 

The Consumer Council for Water (CCWater), which represents customers of water and sewerage companies in England and Wales, is also supporting the campaign.

Starting this Saturday, March 22 2008, which is World Water Day, customers dining at participating restaurants who choose to drink tap water will be encouraged to make a donation to WaterAid, Northumbrian Water’s adopted international charity.

Phil Woolas said:  “In this country we have access to an excellent standard of drinking water at the turn of a tap, so it’s easy to forget that this is not the case for many people in other parts of the world.

“That’s why initiatives like this campaign are so important.  Not only do they raise awareness that many are still lacking access to drinking water, they reinforce what a precious resource water is – even in this country.  It’s vital that we recognise its value and play our part in using it sensibly, if we are to ensure a sustainable supply for future generations.”

The Government’s new water strategy for England, Future Water, was published last month. It sets out the future vision of the water sector and some of the steps needed to get there. The overarching message is the need for everyone to value water and to take responsibility for protecting this unique and precious resource.

The strategy is founded on the simple principle that every action which impacts on one part of the water environment can potentially impact elsewhere.  Recognising this will help to meet ambitious new housing targets and other challenges from changes in climate, population and lifestyles.

Andrea Cook, chairman of CCWater Northern, said: “We welcome initiatives which give customers the option to drink tap water. Tap water in England and Wales is safe, stringently tested and at record quality levels and we encourage customers to speak up and ask for it.  WaterAid supports projects for people who don’t have this choice. I hope that those visiting participating restaurants will remember this and give generously.” 

Northumbrian Water’s Alison Mosquera said: “Restaurants, cafes and bars from right across the region have signed up to the campaign and we hope more will take this opportunity to help save lives and give people hope and a future. 

“Access to safe water and sanitation are basic human rights and it doesn’t cost much to make a real difference.  Just £15 is enough to provide a child in Africa and Asia with a lasting supply of clean, safe water, effective sanitation and hygiene education for life.”

WaterAid factsheet      Water factsheet

Restaurants, cafes and bars wanting to sign up to or find out more about the campaign should contact Alison Mosquera on 0191 301 6722, email alison.mosquera@nwl.co.uk, or log onto www.nwl.co.uk.