Layton Calls for Fast-tracking of Revised Clean Air Act when Parliament Resumes

PANGNIRTUNG, NUNAVUT – Witnessing first-hand the devastating effects climate change is having on Canada’s Arctic, NDP Leader Jack Layton today called on the Harper Conservatives to fast-track the revised Clean Air and Climate Change Act (Bill C-30) immediately upon the return of Parliament on September 17. Layton made the remarks after a tour of Auyuittuq National Park of Canada, in Pangnirtung, Nunavut.

“After years of Liberal inaction and Conservative indifference, Parliament must tackle the growing climate change crisis now,” said Layton. “Climate change is threatening the way for life for average northerners and that’s undermining our sovereignty.”“We can’t protect our sovereignty if we don’t protect our land,” said Layton. “As I’ve seen and heard today first-hand, the effects of climate change are a reality for Northern Canadians. We cannot afford to wait.”

Today is the second of a four-day tour of Canada’s Arctic. Layton is joined by NDP MPs Dennis Bevington (Western Arctic) and Jean Crowder (Nanaimo-Cowichan). Academic and author Michael Byers is also participating in the tour and providing expert advice on northern and sovereignty issues.

Dr. Byers holds the Canada Research Chair in Global Politics and International Law at the University of British Columbia. He is a well-known expert in Canadian sovereignty and author of the recently released book, “Intent for a Nation: What is Canada for?”

Tonight, the delegation will travel to Rankin Inlet for a feast with the local community.