trudeau Government Shifts course on Climate,Sparks Concern from Bloc MP
OTTAWA – A series of recent policy changes under Prime Minister justin Trudeau‘s government is raising concerns about Canada’s commitment to its greenhouse gas reduction targets,with critics pointing to a marked departure from previous environmental strategies. The moves, including the elimination of the federal carbon tax in eight provinces and the suspension of electric vehicle sales quotas, signal a new approach that some observers find deeply troubling.
The shift comes as Canada aims to reduce GHG emissions by 40% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels-a goal now increasingly in doubt. These developments are impacting not onyl environmental groups and concerned citizens, but also Canada’s international standing on climate action, potentially jeopardizing future collaborations and investments. The changes are prompting questions about the long-term sustainability of Canada’s environmental policies and the nation’s ability to meet its commitments under the Paris Agreement.
Bloc MP Patrick Bonin voiced strong criticism, stating, “canada continues to move away from the trajectory to achieve its greenhouse gas reduction targets.”
The initial signal of a change in direction came shortly after Trudeau took office, with the elimination of the federal carbon tax-a policy unpopular in manny provinces. This was followed in 2019 by the appointment of Mark Carney as United Nations Special Envoy for climate finance, a move that initially appeared to reinforce the government’s commitment to environmental issues.
However, subsequent actions have cast doubt on that perception. In June, Bill C-5 was adopted, suspending several environmental laws to expedite the growth of major projects deemed to be of national interest. Then,in September,the government suspended sales quotas for electric vehicles,further signaling a prioritization of economic development over environmental regulations. The list of major projects of national interest has since been expanded to include two liquefied natural gas projects.
Sean Kilpatrick, Canadian Press Archives / Patrick Bonin
