I want to provide honourable members with an update on this province�s position related to the ratification of the Kyoto Protocol.

Let me reiterate that Newfoundland and Labrador has always supported and will continue to support measures that will address climate change. Climate change is a serious global problem and this province must do its part to address the issue. We remain committed to working with all provinces and territories, the federal government, business, industry, and the general public in developing a truly Canadian approach to climate change initiatives.

On October 28, this province�s energy and environment ministers attended a joint ministers� meeting in Halifax to discuss a national approach to addressing climate change. While I was pleased that all provinces and territories were able to come together with one voice on key principles in formulating a national plan, I was very disappointed with the federal government�s dismissive attitude and their unilateral declaration that the Kyoto Protocol will be ratified by the end of the year, regardless of any issues, concerns or proposals put forward by the provinces and territories.

The draft federal plan on climate change is not a realistic approach to address the concerns of Canadians. I, along with several other premiers, have asked the Prime Minister to convene a first ministers� meeting to discuss Canada�s approach to the Kyoto Protocol and ensure that a realistic climate change plan, a plan that will ensure that all Canadians have an opportunity for input, is developed. The Prime Minister has stated this meeting will not take place before ratification.

There are too many uncertainties and unknowns associated with the draft federal plan on climate change for this province to support the ratification of the Kyoto Protocol at this time. We have concern with the process. We have concern with respect to the outcomes. We have concern with impacts on the province. We are concerned with the impact on our investment climate, our offshore petroleum industry and our continued economic growth. I am calling on the federal government to reconsider the principles of the Kyoto Protocol, specifically the three principles advocated by the provinces and territories but not supported at the federal level.

The draft federal plan is incomplete and requires additional work, refinement, negotiation and consultation. This work cannot be completed in a matter of weeks. To base a ratification decision on a vague and incomplete plan, is an irresponsible action.

I am committed to do what is right for a clean and safe environment. However, I will not support a federal protocol that could be detrimental to Newfoundland and Labrador. If this is the case we will look at all our options, working in the best interest of the people of the province. I remain committed to ensuring a responsible and sensible balance between economic development and a meaningful plan that can address climate change in a realistic manner.

2002 11 19                1:50 p.m.