The following statement was issued today by Tom Osborne, Minister of Environment and Conservation. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

I am pleased to inform members of the House of Assembly that on Friday past the Province officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the federal government on addressing climate change.

Climate change is a challenging environmental issue. It is an issue that this province does not take lightly. We are committed to taking action on climate change and doing our part to create a cleaner, healthier environment and improve the quality of life for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Government�s commitment to address climate change was recently demonstrated in Budget 2005 when $300,000 was announced for climate change initiatives. Signing an MOU with the federal government is another important step forward that demonstrates our continued commitment to address climate change and work with the federal government on this issue.

The MOU allows the provincial and federal governments to work cooperatively in developing effective solutions to address climate change, as well as identifying potential opportunities, such as the development of hydroelectricity and wind power, which would have positive economic benefits for the province.

The MOU outlines general principles, areas of mutual concern, and cooperative initiatives to address climate change. Priority areas in the MOU include reviewing the Lower Churchill project as a potential contributor to achieving national and provincial climate change objectives, reducing greenhouse gas emissions through renewable/alternative energy development and energy management and efficiency in government facilities and operations, research and development on climate change impacts and adaptation strategies, and increasing public awareness and education of climate change.

Besides addressing climate change through the MOU, government is also committed to a provincial Climate Change Action Plan. We are currently finalizing our action plan, which will outline a path forward in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the potential impacts of climate change. Government is committed to making honest efforts towards meaningful improvement in our air quality and in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Safeguarding our environment is a priority for us. We will continue to take action to achieve a healthier environment through initiatives highlighted in the MOU and our provincial Climate Change Action Plan.

The MOU we have signed with the federal government is another clear demonstration that Newfoundland and Labrador is serious about addressing climate change. We look forward to a productive working relationship with our federal colleagues on this important issue. Through the MOU, we will bring together innovative ideas that will help create a cleaner environment, while also helping to ensure a stronger and sustainable economy.

2005 05 03                                 1:55 p.m.