NEWS RELEASE

Canadian parliamentarians travel to Suriname to discuss strategies to meet climate change commitments

On August 8-9, 2019, the Honourable David M. Wells, Senator and Mr. T.J. Harvey, M.P. will be in Paramaribo, Suriname representing the Canadian Section of ParlAmericas at ParlAmericas’ 4^th Gathering of the Parliamentary Network on Climate Change.

Delegates from across the Americas and the Caribbean will discuss parliamentary oversight of the implementation of the “Katowice Climate Package,” and will examine the contribution that legislative measures can make regarding climate change mitigation and adaptation in such areas as health, disaster risk reduction, and ocean and coastal protection. Senator Wells will present a case study from Canada on climate-smart extractive industries. As well, delegates will participate in a workshop on the creation, management and oversight of carbon markets and “non-market” mechanisms. Delegates will also learn about funding available in Latin America for projects designed to mitigate and adapt to climate change.

“ParlAmericas’ Parliamentary Network on Climate Change is an essential forum for legislators from across the Americas and the Caribbean. It provides a great opportunity for them to meet and exchange information about the best strategies for protecting our environment,” stated the Honourable Bob Nault, P.C., M.P., President of ParlAmericas and Chair of the Canadian Section of ParlAmericas. “Simply put, climate change is about the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the wildlife, forests, and vegetation that surround us.”

Senator Wells continued: “Protecting the environment while ensuring that economic progress can occur is an important priority for many legislators in the Western Hemisphere. Sustainable and responsible use of natural resources such as oil and gas is critical for attaining climate change goals while ensuring continued growth.”

“We all know that climate change is one of the world’s greatest challenges as it impacts all of us,” added Mr. Harvey. “As an agricultural exporter, Canada is among the countries that understands the need for strategies, plans and investments both to adapt agricultural production to a changing climate and to prevent it from contributing to climate change.”

Founded in 2001 in Ottawa, ParlAmericas is the only interparliamentary institution with its International Secretariat headquartered in Canada. The Canadian Section of ParlAmericas works closely with the Secretariat to advance parliamentary diplomacy and political dialogue throughout the Americas and the Caribbean.

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To arrange an interview with the Hon. Bob Nault, President of ParlAmericas and Chair of the Canadian Section of ParlAmericas, please contact:

Julian Morelli
(613) 996-1161
bob.nault.a1@parl.gc.ca

Melissa Dawe
(613) 996-1161
bob.nault.a2@parl.gc.ca