News Release
Government of Canada Ratifies Kyoto Protocol
December 17, 2002 (9:15 a.m. EST) No. 174
The Government of Canada today announced its ratification of the Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. This follows votes by members of the House of Commons and Senate in favour of ratification.
"The United Nations has worked hard for nine years to achieve international agreement on a global framework for action," said Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham. "In the Speech from the Throne, the Government of Canada committed to ratifying the Protocol before the end of the year and today we met that commitment."
At the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, where he delivered the instrument of ratification, Environment Minister David Anderson said, "Ratifying the Kyoto Protocol is the right thing to do for Canadians, for the global environment and for future generations. The scientific consensus demanded action, and the Government of Canada listened and worked with all sectors and segments of the population to develop a Climate Change Plan for Canada that will get results."
"Ratification is an important milestone in Canada's contribution to addressing climate change. Now, we can look forward to the next challenge of the implementation phase," said Natural Resources Minister Herb Dhaliwal. "The Climate Change Plan for Canada provides a solid framework for action and we will continue to build on this through ongoing consultations with provinces, territories, industry and other stakeholders in the months and years ahead."
The Climate Change Plan for Canada proposes a national goal--for Canadians to become the most sophisticated and efficient consumers and producers of energy in the world and leaders in the development of new, cleaner technologies.
The Plan maps out a comprehensive and detailed approach to reaching Canada's Kyoto target. It is based on clear guidelines: the economy cannot be put at risk; no region will bear an unfair burden; and there must be a favourable climate for investment.
The Government of Canada will continue to work in partnership with all governments, stakeholders and other Canadians in this national effort, and will ensure that Canada can reach its goals in a fiscally prudent manner.
Canada will also continue to work with the international community for improvements to the Kyoto Protocol regime, whether in the recognition of cleaner energy exports or in identifying how more countries can be engaged in setting and achieving targets.
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Isabelle Savard
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
(613) 995-1851
Media Relations
Department of Foreign Affairs
and International Trade (613) 995-1874
Kelly Morgan
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of the Environment
(819) 997-1441
Media Relations
Environment Canada
(819) 953-4016
Alexandra Muir
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Natural Resources
(613) 947-8246
This document is also available on the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade's Internet site.
