Meanwhile, in Canada

MEDIA RELEASE
Saturday, 10 December 2005

Milne calls for leadership in plenary address
to global climate conference

In her Plenary address to the Montreal climate conference as vice-president of the World Conservation Union, Australian Greens Senator Christine Milne today called for leadership and a commitment to bold action.

This is in sharp contrast to Australian Environment Minister Ian Campbell’s destructive comments about the Kyoto Protocol, which do not accurately reflect discussions now underway.

“Contrary to the Minister’s allegations that the end is nigh for the Protocol, this meeting has ensured that the Protocol will be implemented and will trigger a vigorous carbon market from which Australian businesses will be locked out,” Senator Milne said in Montreal.

“The Howard Government’s anti-Kyoto stand is not only a barrier to business engagement in Asia, but it will render Australian renewable industries less competitive in a global market, costing Australian jobs.”

As the two week negotiations draw to a close, Senator Milne emphasised “the importance of moving forward quickly and with purpose on future commitments”.

Representing one of only 17 intergovernmental and non-governmental organisations invited to officially address the assembled governments, Senator Milne reminded the conference that the “meeting is taking place at a critical moment in the Earth’s history and the world is watching”.

Her recognition of the role of youth in the climate debate drew applause from youth delegates at the conference.

“We need bold actions to address climate change, and owe as much or more to today’s youth and to future generations,” Senator Milne told the conference. “We urge you to agree on a constructive process to negotiate commitments beyond 2012.

“Let this era be known for the race to the top, of working together for the common good, and for a common goal. Leadership will be judged by the vision and commitment to address climate change.”

The full statement to the conference is available at http://www.iucn.org/en/news/archive/2005/12/iucn_unfccc11.pdf