ENVIRONMENT MINISTER SEEKS SUPPORT TO PROMOTE THE GOVERNMENT’S GREENHOUSE GAS PLAN

Environment Minister Nancy Heppner today introduced a government motion seeking support from the Legislative Assembly for the government's greenhouse gas reduction plan, which will result in real reduction of emissions in Saskatchewan.

"We are now only three weeks away from the historic Conferences of the Parties (COP) 15 summit in Copenhagen, where nations from all over the world will seek a common path forward for reducing greenhouse gas emissions," Heppner said. "I want to provide the opportunity for all members of the Legislative Assembly to voice their support for the position that I will be promoting on the international stage."

As announced in the 2009 Speech from the Throne, Heppner will be leading a Saskatchewan delegation from December 12-19 that will be presenting the government's plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 20 per cent by 2020 and establish the Saskatchewan Technology Fund, which will see offset payments stay in the province, and will be showcasing Saskatchewan's world-renowned leadership in carbon capture and storage technology.

"Our government believes that this plan will result in real emissions reduction by investing in new technology right here in Saskatchewan," Heppner said. "Our plan balances environmental protection with economic growth, thereby ensuring the well-being and future prosperity of our province."

The motion reads:
That this assembly support the government's plan addressing climate change; a plan balancing environmental protection with economic growth, thereby ensuring the well-being and future prosperity of Saskatchewan families.

And that this assembly support the Saskatchewan plan to direct offset payments into the Saskatchewan Technology Fund to fund research into the development of technology needed to help the world reduce and control carbon emissions.

And that this Honourable Assembly encourage the government to actively promote the Saskatchewan plan at the United Nations COP 15 Conference in Copenhagen, in December of 2009.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Kathy Young
Executive Council
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0425
Email: kathy.young@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-526-8927