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Now is the time to have your voice heard!

By John Bennett
Executive Director,
Climate Action Network Canada / Réseau Action Climat Canada

April 11, 2006

The Government of Canada is cutting back on climate change programs by 40% in a short sighted move to fund tax cuts. The move is being taken without regard to the implications for Canada’s ability to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions or meet its commitments under the Kyoto Protocol.

The cutting began with the failure to renew all programs that ran out of money on March 31, 2006. The Harper government initially responded that it was the result of a unfinished program review.

On Wednesday, April 5th, CBC National television news reported that Minister of Natural Resources Gary Lunn confirmed there have been cuts.

On Thursday, April 6th, the federal government was battered with questions on Kyoto.

During the first week of April, members of CAN-RAC worked behind the scenes to get the information out and in front of the media. However, the cuts are still a reality. If we are to continue building momentum and have a good chance of success, it is going to take all of us.

Government statements are just part of a misinformation campaign to muddy the waters about what it is really doing. We learned through some excellent sleuthing that the federal Cabinet decided to cut all climate spending by 40% with all external spending going first (science and outreach). This will be followed by cuts to government programs. Environment Canada will be subject to an 80% cut, including the entire Climate Fund.

The federal government is continuing to deny any decisions have been made on “programs”. The key word here is "programs". There are still decisions to be made on precise program cuts but the amount of the cut has already been established. We have briefed members of the media and they are trying to confirm what we know.

We are heading back to 1990, folks. This is the most serious situation that has been faced in the long and arduous fight for action on climate change. While the past position may have been 'not enough, we need more', it has always been within the context of continual advancement on the issue.

The situation is now entirely reversed. Regardless of what one may think of the limited progress obtained so far, what’s coming next is a disaster.

The Harper government apparently believes it can get away with hacking the climate plan to pieces. However, as we know, significant support for reducing greenhouse emissions in Canada and for climate action exists across the country. The federal government needs to hear from all of you – your organizations and regional networks need to get into the game.

CAN-RAC is suggesting a plan of action. It is based on the principle that knowledge is power and people have power. We are asking you to raise the alarm by taking action to reduce emissions in Canada. You need to write letters to the editor, contact your MP and the Prime Minister.

You can find for MP and their contact info at http://canada.gc.ca/directories/direct_e.html#mp

You can send your comments to the Prime Minister by e-mail to pm@pm.gc.ca or write or fax the Prime Minister’s office at:

Rt. Honourable Stephen Harper
Office of the Prime Minister
80 Wellington Street
Ottawa
K1A 0A2