In November 2020, the federal government created the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act (Bill C-12). This is a legislative act that ensures political leaders are held responsible for reaching climate targets by reducing the emission of net-zero greenhouse gases (GHGs).
Additionally, this measure helps push the government to enforce action on climate change before 2050. However, the legislation has encountered some amendment delays due to the possibility of a federal election.
This has made various political parties blame each other for unnecessary delays. If the legislation doesn’t become law as soon as possible, then individuals will have to face severe climate consequences.
As of now, Bill C-12 is still on hold until the MPs vote and pass the debate then send it to the standing committee on environment and sustainable development for amendment. After amendments, the legislation will then go to parliament where it becomes law.
Since the Covid-19 pandemic has brought everything to a standstill, it might be hard for Bill C-12 to undergo the right procedure for now. However, political leaders need to consider that climate change is a national disaster and should be confronted as soon as possible.
Canadian leaders need to break the current parliamentary procedures and send Bill C-12 to the committee for amendments. Factually, delaying the assessment of Bill C-12 is already causing havoc and a lack of confidence among individuals.
Since Canadians have elected a minority parliament, they expect their leaders to perform their duties responsibly. However, this is not the case with Bill C-12 legislation.
