verbena-19

Jim Harris Offers Suggestions for Mr. Harper

News Release
For Immediate Release

Green Party Leader Jim Harris Offers Suggestions for Mr. Harper’s Throne Speech

(Ottawa, Monday, March 27th, 2006) - "The Green Party has a vision for Canada," said Jim Harris, leader of the Green Party of Canada, today at a press conference on Parliament Hill.

"We understand Mr. Harper has his priorities. We also understand that almost 700,000 Canadians voted for the Green Party in January," added Harris, "and they voted for us so that we could represent their views in the House of Commons. An antiquated electoral system is the only thing stopping us."

Harris requested that Mr. Harper seriously consider all aspects of what it means to have a healthy Canada. "Standing up for Canada means delivering a balanced budget, supporting our communities, and ensuring the health of our planet," said Harris.

"During the climate change talks in Montreal last December, worldwide consensus was reached that the time for the green movement has come," said Harris, "Global awareness around ecological issues has reached new heights and the green movement is becoming an economic and political force. The need for clean air and fresh water bind us all together."

Harris requested that Mr. Harper:

Respect our Kyoto commitments. Using legislation and fiscal incentives we can meet our greenhouse gas emission targets and continue to build Canada’s international reputation and credibility as a country that honours its environmental responsibilities.

Strike a citizen’s committee on democratic reform and hold a national referendum to implement their recommendations. We need an electoral system that will recognize the contribution of all political parties and help them work together.

Reduce income tax while introducing new taxes on pollution.

Work to amend the Charter of Rights and Freedoms to include the right of all Canadians to clean air and water.

Pass the Canada Well-Being Measurement Act and implement the Canadian Index of Well-Being so that our economic success reflects our actual quality of life without attaching value to ecological and social catastrophes.

For more information contact:
Derek Pinto
Media Relations Officer
(613)882-4761

Authorized by the Chief Agent of the Green Party of Canada
Information: media@greenparty.ca
Read this media release online

Green Party of Canada

posted by Annamarie at 10:30 PM