Conservatives Fail to Take Action on Climate Change

June 2, 2014

OTTAWA – The Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement in response to the U.S. government’s announcement on reducing pollution from the power sector by 30% in 2030:

“The Obama administration has taken bold action with today’s announcement to dramatically cut U.S. carbon emissions. This is a major demonstration of global leadership and a strong step to ensuring the U.S. meets its Copenhagen commitments.

“Unfortunately, there is a total absence of leadership in Ottawa. Despite Mr. Harper saying he would act in tandem with the U.S. to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, after nearly a decade in power he and his Conservative government have failed to take any meaningful action on global warming. In fact, Canada is on pace to miss its greenhouse gas reduction commitment by a significant margin, with emissions expected to rise 33% above agreed-to targets for 2030.

“The Conservatives have refused to advance strong environmental policy in Canada – including transparent oversight, tougher penalties, and a price on carbon pollution – and this inaction has had serious consequences for our environment, our international reputation, and our economy.

“If we do not demonstrate to the world that we as a country are serious about the environment, we will find it harder and harder to export our resources to global markets. That is why Liberals are committed to responsible resource development, while promoting clean energy and reducing carbon emissions.”