Mr. Speaker, today is World Environment Day and as environment critic I want to acknowledge all the people who work closest to nature to protect and enhance Canada's natural heritage, whether they are farmers, foresters, fishermen, scientists, conservationists or so many others working on the ground.
We depend on their work for Canada's prosperity. Nature for these people is an everyday reality in which their hard work benefits us all.
We have long advocated that market based solutions and respect for property are the best ways to protect the environment.
Governments must stop legislating unenforceable laws based on command and control and instead make the market work for people and the environment.
Our responsibility as politicians is to ensure environmental programs focus on communication, co-operation and consultation. This is especially important for those who are often left out of consultations in Ottawa.
Wise sustainable use of the bounty that nature has given us is our goal. The health of Canadians and their environment depends on it and depends on those who are working with nature to make Canada the best place in the world to live.