Statement from NDP Environment Critic Megan Leslie for World Environment Day

World Environment Day should be a time of celebration and hope, but instead today’s events take place in the shadow of Conservative attacks on the environment and the science and research that protects it.

This is a day where we recognize that the greatest gift we can offer future generations is to pass on a clean and healthy planet, so that we do not compromise their health, livelihoods and quality of life for our own short-term gain.

Keeping our environment healthy makes long-term economic sense. It prevents costly damage and protects our health, while ensuring development is sustainable and forward-thinking, providing the highest value for local communities and the country.

Canadian scientists are world leaders in their fields, many of whom are doing unique, internationally-relied upon work. In this time of cuts, we honour these women and men for the excellent work they do to protect our air, water and soil.

While the Conservative government continues to turn its back on the environment, New Democrats will keep fighting wrong-headed Conservative cuts and attacks on the scientists who speak out against regressive Conservative environment policy. We owe it to future generations to keep our country strong, healthy and green.