Liberal Members of Parliament are gearing up for a national caucus meeting in Edmonton with a focus on elevating climate change as a central topic. Concerns have been raised by some MPs regarding the perceived lack of emphasis on green initiatives by Prime Minister Mark Carney since taking office.
Montreal MP Éric St-Pierre, along with Nova Scotia MP Shannon Miedema, has proposed the establishment of an environmental caucus to address climate issues. St-Pierre highlighted the absence of a dedicated forum for environmental discussions within the caucus, similar to existing forums for women’s and Indigenous issues.
Following virtual meetings during the summer, the environmental caucus is set to convene in person in Edmonton, inviting all Liberal MPs to participate. St-Pierre, known for his background in climate philanthropy, expressed confidence in Carney’s understanding of climate change issues and anticipates forthcoming proposals from the government.
While St-Pierre commended Carney’s environmental knowledge, some MPs, speaking anonymously, urge Carney to uphold his past role as a UN special envoy on climate action. Questions have been raised about Carney’s decision to cancel the consumer carbon price, a key climate policy of the previous government.
Quebec MP Alexandra Mendes and former leadership candidate Karina Gould are among those advocating for a renewed focus on environmental concerns within the Liberal Party. Mendes emphasized the importance of addressing environmental issues, a sentiment echoed by Gould, who stressed the significance of amplifying voices advocating for climate action.
In contrast, some Liberal MPs support Carney’s approach, emphasizing the need for a balanced strategy between energy development and climate change initiatives. They believe that Carney’s stance aligns with the broader views of Canadians.
A recent Léger poll revealed that only a small percentage of respondents prioritize the environment as a top concern. Despite this, the government, as relayed by the Minister of Environment’s director of communications, remains committed to combating climate change and investing in resilience and mitigation programs nationwide.
The Prime Minister’s Office did not provide comments on the matter.