Hello Mr. Walker

Scientists, political leaders around the world and the Canadian public largely agree that we have reached a global climate emergency, which needs to be addressed immediately with bold actions in order to avoid catastrophic consequences for all life on earth: https://www.nationalobserver.com/2019/08/12/opinion/public-far-ahead-politics-climate-emergency

In light of this emergency I am extremely concerned about Doug Ford's and your Provincial Government’s reckless policies on the environment. At a time where we are challenged with the greatest environmental and subsequently humanitarian crisis, your government seems to be doing anything to counter the fledgling efforts this and many other countries are working on to get at least a start on changing the disastrous trajectory we are on. This includes derailing the national carbon pricing and cancelling the provincial cap and trade program.

Here is an excerpt from the Owen Sound Sun Times on Saturday Aug 24, which exemplifies the premier’s cynicism on this issue: "Premier Doug Ford says gas station owners who don’t put his government’s anti-carbon tax stickers on their pumps will be fined but won’t be handed the maximum penalty available." This arm-twisting and use of threats is far off the serious conversations we need to have and the decisions we need to make.

I know you care for the people of this province and your riding. You and I have children and grand children who we want to have a healthy future, and I believe you want the best for all of us. 

There is excellent information about the science of climate change, climate change adaptation and climate change actions around the world and in Canada, e.g.: https://www.unenvironment.org/explore-topics/climate-change/what-we-do/climate-adaptation/world-adaptation-science-programme

I also suggest you get in touch with and consult the various groups and individuals here in Grey Bruce who are working hard towards mitigating climate change.

I really wish you would influence Doug Ford on these issues and show compassionate leadership for the people of this planet and this province, who need to have a healthy environment long after your government is gone.

There still is some hope for change!

 Thank you very much
Joachim Ostertag
Owen Sound

source: letter from Joachim Ostertag