News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The federal government and the provinces and territories have agreed to work towards the establishment of a pan-Canadian framework to address climate change and grow the economy.

“Our government recognizes the tremendous value in collaborating with our provincial and territorial partners and with the federal government,” said Environment and Local Government Minister Brian Kenny, after two days of meetings in Ottawa. “We are working hard on our climate change plan. We have a good sense of where we want to go but it is a complex file and we must make sure that whatever we do on that front respects our distinct economic challenges and opportunities.”

During their meetings, the ministers responsible for the environment reviewed progress and discussed how to reduce emissions. The participants agreed that the country’s prosperity must be built on the principle that the environment and the economy go hand-in-hand. They also discussed economic opportunities; means of reducing emissions, including carbon pricing; and adapting to the effects of climate change.

“These discussions bring us one step closer to the successful development of a pan-Canadian framework for combatting climate change and they help us build sustainable and mutually-beneficial relationships that support our goals of creating jobs, strengthening the economy and helping New Brunswick families,” said Kenny.

Ongoing work on climate change will build on the Declaration of the Premiers of Canada from the Quebec Summit, and existing engagement and actions of provinces and territories. It includes aboriginal knowledge and incorporates new ideas to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while growing our economy.

“It is important to ensure that New Brunswick’s new plan and role fits with the strategies being developed nationally and in other provinces and we are working to that end,” said Kenny.