Green Party Leader Elizabeth May reacts to NDP Climate Change Announcement

(OTTAWA)  - Green Party Leader Elizabeth May (Saanich—Gulf Islands) congratulates the NDP for making a commitment to a legally binding cap on greenhouse gas emissions and encourages the other parties to clarify their plans.

"Mr. Mulcair has made a good start on climate change, but his plan does not address the threat of pipelines and tankers to Canadian communities,” said Ms. May.

The NDP targets are less ambitious than the Green Party. Ms. May is committed to reducing emissions 40 percent below 2005 levels by 2025 and 80% below 1990 levels by 2050, as well as bringing in a $30/tonne price on carbon.

Ms. May added, "Mr.Mulcair has not explained how Canada will be ready for the Paris talks. I offer to be ready with Green MPs, such as Claire Martin, Lynne Quarmby, and Gord Miller whose background and experience will be indispensable in preparing for the deadline negotiations. We stand ready to work with any new government to put Canada back in the lead.

"Climate change is both the biggest challenge and the biggest opportunity Canada has ever faced. While the consequences of failing to address climate change would be catastrophic, our transition to a green, sustainable economy will create good local jobs, shorter commutes, more livable cities, and cleaner air and water."

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For additional information or to arrange an interview, contact:

Julian Morelli
Director of Communications
Green Party of Canada
cell: (613) 614 4916
office: (613) 562 4916 (224)
julian.morelli@greenparty.ca

Or

Kirsten Strom
Executive Assistant to Director of Communications 
t: 613.562.4916 (200) 
Toll Free 1.866.868.3447
kirsten.strom@greenparty.ca