I recognize that this…

I recognize that this government has promised to lesson the burden on those that have had marginal negative impacts to their bottom lines as a result of cap and trade, but I fear that canceling it will have far greater negative impacts, not only today, but for generations on Ontarians to come.

Climate change is a global issue with catastrophic repercussions and an industry of new businesses, new technologies, and innovation is rapidly growing to develop solutions to mitigate it. We are fortunate in Ontario to have a knowledge rich economy, ready to respond to future trends and new opportunities, keeping us at the leading edge in a competitive world. Ontario also has one of the greatest per capita carbon footprints of any region on the planet and we have a duty to reduce it. Cap and trade can not only help mobilize Ontario 's growth in this emerging sector, but can help reduce our impact on the planet. I am concerned that canceling cap and trade will stifle this growth, reverse our progress and jeopardize the livelihoods of future generations.