As preparations are underway for a national caucus meeting in Edmonton by Liberal MPs, there is a push to elevate climate change as a top priority within the political discourse by establishing a dedicated caucus for discussions on the issue. The initiative stems from concerns expressed by some MPs that Prime Minister Mark Carney has not given sufficient emphasis to green initiatives since assuming office.
Newly elected Montreal MP Éric St-Pierre highlighted the absence of an environmental caucus when he entered Parliament and, alongside Nova Scotia MP Shannon Miedema, proposed the formation of a platform to address climate matters, akin to existing forums for women’s and Indigenous topics. Following virtual meetings during the summer, the caucus is set to convene in person in Edmonton, with all Liberal MPs invited.
St-Pierre, known for his background in climate philanthropy, expressed confidence in Prime Minister Carney’s understanding of climate change issues, expecting forthcoming proposals from the government. However, some MPs, speaking anonymously, called for Carney to amplify his previous role as the UN special envoy on climate action and stay aligned with his environmental values.
Carney’s initial act upon taking office was to revoke the consumer carbon price, a move that raised eyebrows among some Liberals. The adoption of Bill C-5, facilitating major infrastructure projects including potential pipelines, also drew attention. Dawn Farrell, the former CEO of Trans Mountain, has been appointed to lead the government’s Major Projects Office.
Several Liberal MPs, including Quebec’s Alexandra Mendes and former leadership contender Karina Gould, are enthusiastic about reinstating environmental concerns at the forefront of the political agenda. While some members advocate for a balanced approach between energy development and climate action, others appreciate Carney’s shift in focus, believing it reflects the sentiments of most Canadians.
A recent Léger poll revealed that only four percent of respondents ranked the environment as their top concern. The Prime Minister’s Office did not provide comment, but the Minister of Environment’s director of communications affirmed that Carney prioritizes combating climate change and investing in community resilience and climate programs nationwide.