NDP calls for emergency debate on decline of Arctic Sea Ice

NDP Environment critic Megan Leslie (Halifax) has sent a letter to the House of Commons Speaker calling for an emergency debate on the alarming decline of Arctic sea ice observed this winter.

“Sea ice is critical to the Arctic’s ecology and economy,” said Leslie. “Local communities depend on frozen ground to transport food and other necessities of life for much of the year. It also provides shelter, hunting grounds and breeding space for local wildlife.”

Leslie wrote the letter after repeated attempts to have this subject studied at committee were denied by the Conservatives. According to the National Snow and Ice Data Centre, this year’s Arctic ice extent has fallen below all previously recorded levels for this time of year.

“It is our responsibility as parliamentarians to have an immediate and in-depth discussion about prevention, mitigation and adaptation,” said Leslie.