A proposed federal bill aims to create stronger protections for the environment.
It’s being put forward by NDP MP Linda Duncan, who says it would add to the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and hold the government accountable to make sure it enforces existing rules.
“An Environmental Bill of Rights legally extends the right to a healthy, ecologically balanced environment,” she explains. “And it confirms the duty of the government of Canada to uphold their public trust duty to protect the environment.”
She adds it would also give Canadians more rights to have a say in decisions affecting the environment.
The NDP member claims if a bill like this had been in place decades ago, Grassy Narrows’ mercury poisoning might have been prevented.
She emphasises the next federal government needs to pass the Environmental Bill of Rights, and get on board with other countries.
Duncan points out the bill, which she has put forward during several previous governments, has been echoed by other countries.
“Over 90 nations have extended these rights through constitutions, laws, court rulings, international treaties, or declarations.”
Debate started on the proposed legislation on Friday.
