Water Supply and Public Private Partnerships

There is an increase in what is commonly referred to as "P3's" or Public Private Partnerships in the water supply and management in Canadian Municipalities. This increased involvemtent has not been without controversy. On the one hand, these partnerships offer much needed financing opportunities. Opponents contend there is often a loss of accountability, service and environmental quality.

A UBC briefing note by Karen Bakker offers a concise summary of the forms of private sector involvement in Canadian water supply utilities and outlines some key issues for Canadians to consider.

Her report is entitled, Canada and the New American Empire, Water Supply Privatization
The bibliography refers to many useful links and further publications exploring this issue, such as the National Guide to Sutainable Municipal Infrastructure.