(OTTAWA) – Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada (Saanich – Gulf Islands), issued the following statement on World Rivers Day:
“World Rivers Day is a reminder for all Canadians about the vital role our water systems play in our ecosystem – they replenish our water basins and sustain essential marine ecosystems.
“Unfortunately in 2012, Stephen Harper removed 99 per cent of rivers and lakes from federal protection under the Navigable Waters Protection Act with the passing of Bill C-45. Today, just 68 rivers in Canada are protected under the Act. It’s shameful.
“The Green Party will restore federal protection of rivers, and enshrine the right to a healthy environment in Canada’s Constitution,” said Ms. May.
Glenn Sollitt, Green Party Fisheries and Oceans Critic (Courtenay – Alberni), continued: “Our rivers are running at low levels and high temperatures, putting in peril wild fish stocks. We need real action on climate change to ensure our rivers remain healthy and productive,” said Sollitt, a veteran commercial fisherman and owner of a seafood wholesale company on Vancouver Island.
“Watching salmon return each fall is a tremendous thrill and I feel an obligation to make sure those journeys continue,” concluded Sollitt.
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