New Democrats bring back Climate Change Accountability Act

OTTAWA – The New Democrats are bringing back the Climate Change Accountability Act in the House of Commons.

“Our legislation sets tough but achievable targets that will ensure Canada does its share to avoid the dangerous two-degree increase in average global temperature that scientists warn us about,” said New Democrat Leader Jack Layton.

“Instead of looking back and dwelling on past targets, missed because of the inaction of previous governments, New Democrats are looking forward to a sustainable future where Canada’s economy is buoyed by environmental initiatives,” declared Bruce Hyer (Thunder Bay–Superior North).

The Climate Change Accountability Act is based on the Case for Deep Reductions report by the Pembina Institute, the David Suzuki Foundation, and the National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy.

It will establish:

• A long-term target to reduce Canadian greenhouse gas emissions to 80% below 1990 levels by 2050.
• A medium-term target to bring emissions 25% below 1990 levels by 2020.

These are the medium and long-term targets consistent with the Kyoto process.

To hold government accountable for meeting these targets, the New Democrat legislation will:

• Provide authority for the government to make regulations in order to meet the targets and set penalties for those who contravene regulations passed under the Act.

The act, first introduced by Mr. Layton in October 2006, legislates long-term targets to reduce Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions and mandates regular reviews and reports on the federal government’s progress. The bill passed in the House of Commons with the support of the Liberals and the Bloc, but the legislative process stopped when Harper called the general election.

In June 2008, climate change activists and environmental leaders around the world celebrated the passage of the world’s first Climate Change Accountability Act. By shutting down Parliament and calling an early election, Stephen Harper has killed the bill.