Reader a big supporter of Trudeau Government’s Just Transition legislation

The Editor, The fossil fuel era is ending whether Danielle Smith likes it or not. In her recent attacks on proposed federal Just Transition legislation, the Alberta Premier acted like the world has a choice between “transition” and “don’t transition.” In reality, our only choice is between a just transition and an unjust one.

Even in their most conservative projections, the typically pro-oil International Energy Agency (IEA) expects fossil fuel demand to peak in 2035. They’ve been clear that there can be no new oil, gas or coal development if the world is to reach net zero by 2050.

As the climate crisis gets worse, people around the world will put intense pressure on their governments to finally stop propping up Big Oil and start rapidly slashing emissions.

The vast majority of Canadians, myself included, want our politicians to stop denying this reality and act now to make sure the transition is fair to all workers and communities.

We can’t trust fossil fuel companies to do right by workers when oil goes bust for good.

Even amidst record profits, Canada’s oil and gas sector currently employs tens of thousands fewer people than it did a decade ago. While these workers get layoffs, executives and shareholders get bonuses and buybacks.

That’s why I’m glad to see the Trudeau government finally moving forward with Just Transition legislation and I’ll be doing everything I can this year to push Parliament to deliver the boldest possible version of the bill.