New Democrats call for speedy passage of C-311 in opposition day motion

OTTAWA – Federal New Democrats will use their opposition day motion tomorrow to call for adoption of Bill C-311, the Climate Change Accountability Act. The motion, tabled today in the House of Commons, will call for C-311 to be adopted at all stages.

“Climate changing gases are building up in the world's atmosphere at astonishing rates. Unchecked, our grandchildren will not recognize the planet we have left them. Our bill provides a strategy for Canada to fight climate change,” said New Democrat Leader Jack Layton. “It is critical that this legislation receive the support of Parliament before the world gathers in Copenhagen in December.”

There is an astonishing global consensus on the urgency of the climate crisis and widespread support in Canada for real action, yet the Conservative government has failed to provide leadership.

Bill C-311 sets out deep greenhouse-gas reduction targets for Canada, and are based on the best scientific evidence available. If the C-311 becomes law, Canada would commit to reduce GHG emissions by 80 per cent by 2050, with 1990 serving as the base year. Interim targets and accountability reporting are also set out in the Bill so that no matter which party is in power in the future, the law must be respected.

On Wednesday of last week a crucial vote was held on Bill C-311. Rather than bring the bill forward for a vote, Liberals and Conservatives acted together to block the bill and return it to committee, where it has been under study since April.

Witnesses have testified, experts have spoken, and the world is waiting. The NDP’s Climate Change Accountability Act would send an extraordinary signal to the world that Canadians are serious about fighting climate change.

“I call on all members of the House to support this motion,” said Layton.