Mr. Speaker, our major newspapers reported today that federal and provincial environment ministers are expected to sign an agreement very shortly on environmental assessment.
Under this national agreement on environmental harmonization, the Canadian government will transfer major responsibilities to provinces.
This agreement, which was the subject of arduous negotiations during the past two years, is especially important because it will help improve environmental protection while eliminating duplication and jurisdictional conflicts.
In the throne speech in February, our Prime Minister launched an appeal to all Canadians to work together to protect the environment. This agreement is the appropriate response to this appeal and is a reflection of the many agreements concluded between our government and provincial governments to make our Canadian federation more efficient.