Stephen Leahy, Federal Candidate for Durham, October 2008
Having chronicled the stark environmental warnings of scientists for 15 years as an international journalist, it's become crystal clear to me that the time has come to put our concern into action. The consequences of our ongoing failure to do so will be paid by our children and grandchildren.
It is equally clear that changing lightbulbs or driving a little less is not enough to solve the problems. Canada needs to rapidly become a society that truly protects and enhances its environment, health and economy. This can only be achieved through sensible, realistic policies such as fostering green technologies and a low-carbon economy -- the greatest business opportunity of the century.
The Green Party understands this reality. That is why it is the fastest-growing political force in Canada, attracting 660,000 voters in the last federal election.
And it's more than a one-issue party, with a well-reasoned alternative policy agenda that is socially progressive and fiscally responsible. For example:
- Eliminate large corporate subsidies and grants programmes. It makes no sense to continue to subsidize the wealthiest companies on earth such as oil companies;
- Ensure farm support payments are farm-based (not production based) to encourage more farms and more farmers;
- Stop designing our communities around the car and start designing them around families and children.
As they decide which party best represents their values and beliefs, I encourage fellow Durham voters to learn more about Green Party policy at www.greenparty.ca/en/policy.
Some 2,500 years ago, a Chinese philosopher offered a follower this understated advice: ‘If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading.’ With respect to climate change and other environmental challenges, we surely do not want to wind up where we are headed. The Green Party offers a new direction for a prosperous and sustainable future.
—Stephen Leahy
