Statement by Nycole Turmel on the 7th anniversary of the Kyoto Protocol coming into force

Seven years ago today, the Kyoto Protocol came into force. Canadians were proud that Canada was one of nearly 200 countries to support this treaty, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

But the inaction of the Liberals and Conservatives—who unconditionally support the oil sands industry—have set the country back.

Last December, Canada became the first signatory country to withdraw from Kyoto.

This decision was very damaging to Canada. Breaking our international commitment tainted our reputation abroad and turned off important trading partners. The United States and the European Union are now turning away from Canada and refusing to buy our dirty oil. Meanwhile, Canadian families aren’t benefiting from new green energy jobs, and the environment that our future generations will rely on continues to deteriorate.

Even China says withdrawing from Kyoto undermines Canada’s credibility. 

So there’s nothing to celebrate today.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.  New Democrats are committed to defeating the Conservative government and making Canada a leader in the new energy economy.  On this 7^th anniversary of Kyoto, I invite all Canadians to join us in this effort.