News Release

Canada's New Environment Minister Meets with Canadian Environmental Groups

Vancouver, B.C. - January 9, 2007 - Federal Environment Minister John Baird will meet this afternoon with representatives from ten environmental non-governmental organizations as part of his outreach to Canada's environmental leaders. Greenpeace Canada, Pollution Probe, Nature Canada, Équiterre, the Pembina Institute, Sierra Legal Defence Fund, Sierra Club of Canada, World Wildlife Fund and the David Suzuki Foundation are expected to participate.

"I am pleased to have the opportunity to meet with members of the Canadian environmental community, particularly at this early stage in my new role as Environment Minister," remarked Minister Baird. "I look forward to discussing what actions we can work on together to address Canadian environmental challenges like clean air, climate change and chemical substances management."

"Environmental groups are important to Canada's New Government's efforts to achieve shared environmental goals. Furthermore, the millions of Canadians who are members of these organizations are instrumental in helping Canada develop environmental citizenship across the nation," stated Minister Baird.

Canada's New Government has a comprehensive environmental agenda, which includes Canada's Clean Air Act, support for public transit users, a comprehensive Chemicals Management Plan and action on renewable fuels. Prime Minister Harper also recently announced the creation of a new Cabinet Committee on the Environment and Energy Security which will pursue practical, results-oriented solutions to decrease Canada's greenhouse gas emissions, reduce pollution and improve the health and well-being of Canadians.

"As I stated earlier this week, more needs to be done and we need to focus on achieving tangible results," said Minister Baird. "I think we can accomplish a great deal. I look forward to a productive relationship with Canada's environmental groups."

For further information, please contact:

Mike Van Soelen
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of the Environment
(819) 997-1441

Media Relations
Environment Canada
(819) 934-8008
1-888-908-8008