On Wednesday October 4, members of our Yukon Liberal caucus were proud to stand in support of the Paris Agreement on climate change.
Members debated the motion put forward by MLA for Porter Creek Centre Paolo Gallina:
- THAT this House supports the Paris Agreement as an effective international agreement to deal with greenhouse gas emissions and climate change mitigation and adaption; and commends leaders of national, provincial, territorial, state, First Nation and municipal governments who are committed to the agreement and working to take necessary actions to fulfill its terms.
Climate change Impacts all of us. Liberal caucus MLAs spoke to issues of climate mitigation and adaption, the economic opportunity of clean growth, and how climate change impacts the heritage and culture of Yukon.
Read on for highlights from the debate.
“Canada is committed to working with all partners to tackle climate change. As one of those partners we understand the huge economic opportunity of clean growth. And we want to leave a cleaner and healthier planet to our kids and grandkids.” –MLA Paolo Gallina
“”Putting a price on carbon puts the Yukon on par with 80 percent of Canada. I am now referring to 80 percent of Canada that already has a price on carbon either through a carbon tax or cap and trade. That’s 80 percent of Canadians who already have it, as well as other regions and countries around the globe that are standing together to fight climate change — climate change that is risking the future of our families and our kids. I’m proud of the Yukon for doing its part; standing up for the Yukon and alongside all Canadians.” – MLA John Streicker
“We will do our part, or more, as Yukoners have always done. We will help people adapt to a post-carbon economy. We will make our buildings more efficient. We will diversify and expand our green energy options. I have pushed this publicly for many, many years. It is one of the reasons I sought a seat in this Legislature — because there are real benefits to our society joining this fight wholeheartedly — self-sufficiency, energy efficiency, less expensive production, innovation, new industry, more knowledge, less waste, improved personal health, opportunity.” – MLA Richard Mostyn
