To the Editor:
From our great rivers to our soaring peaks, Canada’s rugged natural beauty has instilled a love of the outdoors across generations of Canadians. Yet the responsibility to protect these treasures—and the opportunities they create for work and play—has been forgotten during the Harper decade.
The Conservatives have refused to take meaningful action on climate change, slashed environmental protections and cut funding for science.
Their neglect has real economic consequences: as the global market for clean technology has grown, Canada’s market share has fallen 71 per cent.
We cannot afford to let this continue. That’s why Justin Trudeau and the Liberal Party have a comprehensive vision to protect our environment while growing the economy.
Our plan starts with credible action on climate change. A Liberal government will work with provincial and territorial premiers on a framework that builds on their work to combat climate change. Federal funding will help implement the plan best suited to each province, not a one-sized-fits-all policy.
The weakened credibility of the environmental assessment projects has paralyzed the development of major natural resource projects. A Liberal government will restore robust oversight and community participation to federal reviews. Decisions will be based on facts and evidence, not cheerleading.
Around the world, companies are finding solutions to environmental problems and turning them into exports, creating good middle class jobs while reducing pollution. A Liberal government will support Canadian clean tech startups and invest in the development of innovative technologies for forestry, fisheries, mining, energy and agriculture.
Liberals will make all our national parks free for children and any adult who has become a new Canadian citizen within the previous 12 months, and to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday by making them free for everyone in 2017.
Finally, we will work with provincial and local governments to better predict, prepare for, and respond to weather related emergencies.
The Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration, which supported Western Canada as it grappled with previous challenges to precious soil and water resources, is a model of what can work.
Canadians no longer need to make the false choice between the environment and the economy. Mr. Trudeau’s plan will create jobs AND protect our environment.
Future generations are relying on us to get this right and uphold the legacy of Canada’s wilderness. It’s time for real change.
John McKay, MP
Liberal Party of Canada Environment Critic
