(OTTAWA) -The Green Party of Canada group at COP21 is encouraged by the constructive atmosphere as the negotiations enter the final days.
“It is critical that the community of nations succeed in Paris," said Elizabeth May, MP for Saanich Gulf Islands and Leader of the Green Party of Canada. "It is clear that Canada's shift in position -- in supporting 1.5 degrees as the maximum level of global average temperature increase that human societies and ecosystems can survive -- has created more productive negotiations."
Claire Martin, Green Party Climate Critic, agreed. "While the commentary from other parties has continued in the tired and predictable formula of 'gotcha' politics, as Canadians here at COP21, it is clear that we have reason to be proud. Canada's change in position has garnered changed and more flexible conditions from other countries as well."
The negotiations have now entered a critical phase as the COP President, Foreign Affairs Minister of France, Laurent Fabius, will control the drafting of a revised draft agreement to be tabled by 1 PM Paris time on December 9 (8 AM ET Canada). "We are not out of the woods yet, but as I work the corridors and speak with delegations from other countries, there is no question that Canada's role in these talks is seen as helpful. I want to continue to help our delegation, ignoring partisan politics. When we get back home to Canada, we have our domestic challenges to craft a national climate strategy. Right now, our goal is to help the world agree to the strongest possible climate agreement," concluded May.
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For additional information or to arrange an interview, contact:
Julian Morelli
Director of Communications
Green Party of Canada
cell: (613) 614 4916
office: (613) 562 4916 (224)
julian.morelli@greenparty.ca