I believe that the Ontario…

I believe that the Ontario Cap and Trade Program should be maintained. Carbon pricing is broadly recognized as one of the most effective, transparent, and efficient policy approaches to reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions. Carbon pricing is a central component of the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and has generated significant revenue to the Provincial Government during the short time it has been in place. These revenues have been reinvested in energy efficiency programs and incentives to support our fight against global altering Climate Change.

The Ontario Cap and Trade Program is supporting jobs in the new Clean Economy which continues to grow exponentially and is being embraced by countries around the world. The Cap and Trade Program in Ontario will continue to support a prosperous low-carbon economy with support for world-leading innovation, science and technology. It will continue to make available funding for industries and manufacturers proposing to transform their operations and move off carbon-based fuels and peak electricity.

The Provinces Climate Change Mitigation and Low-carbon Economy Act, creates a long term framework for climate action. The Act creates a robust framework for the Cap and Trade program, ensures transparency and accountability on how any proceeds collected under the program are used and enshrines emission reduction targets in legislation.

Ontario is a founding member of the Western Climate Initiative (WCI). In 2017, Ontario linked its cap and trade system with those of WCI members Quebec and California to create the largest cap and trade system in North America. This partnership places Ontario in a strong position to move forward with these growing economies, providing an environment of investment and innovation while creating good jobs for the people of Ontario.

In lieu of Bill 4 (the Cap and Trade Cancellation Act), would the Government consider an offset through a reduction in Income Tax? I believe we need to maintain a price on pollution and the Cap and Trade program in Ontario is proving to be an effective tool at accomplishing that. An offset through Income Tax would provide more direct income to the people of Ontario and offset any direct increase in consumer spending the people of Ontario may experience.