Stephen Harper’s Refusal to Attend Global Climate Summit Unacceptable

September 23, 2014

OTTAWA – The Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the UN Climate Summit occurring in New York City:

“The Prime Minister’s refusal to join world leaders this week at the UN Climate Summit underscores how little environmental stewardship factors into this government’s agenda.

“The Prime Minister has failed to advance strong environmental policy in this country – 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.

“This is why Canada’s emissions are growing rather than slowing, why Canada will miss its agreed-to 2020 emissions reduction targets, and why Canada has earned an international reputation for inaction and obstruction on climate change. The Conservatives have proven that they cannot be counted on to take the necessary steps to protect our environment and our economy.

“Liberals have been consistent in calling for stronger environmental oversight and meaningful emissions reductions. Unfortunately, Mr. Harper has shown that he continues to get the big things wrong.”