Climate Change

The Climate is Everything

By Peter Ormond
Published December 18, 2009

It's Friday afternoon. US President Barack Obama and others have just delivered speeches that flag the need for cooperation, and pledge the commitment of their respective countries.

Canada's position is so out of touch that Prime Minister Stephen Harper wasn't even invited to a special meeting that Obama called to align key players in this negotation process.

Even last night, Harper was the only leader present not to address the other world leaders gathered. Instead, he asked Environment Minister Jim Prentice to perform this task, and the speech was especially empty.

If Harper shows his face, there may be many airborne shoes in the room. He has done Canada such a disservice that folks would likely rather keep their footwear, and he'll have a lonely stroll.

I wonder how many members of Canada's team don't agree with the message they've asked to give, and know that it's out of line with both the global consensus, and with Canadians and their own personal beliefs.

If that's the case, I'd advise some not to continue their job. Quit. Protest. Prentice looks like he's guilty of something, anyway!

Imagine if Harper's underlings in Copenhagen put down their blackberries one at a time, and refused to perform the role of obstructionist. A criminal is powerless without his associates.

That new approach is something that's going to resurface. Call is career conscience.

Canada has isolated itself. Harper doesn't get it! This entire conference is about a new world green economy. Copenhagen is just another step in that revolution.

Stay tuned. The world's media are transfixed on this event. It's pivotal and electric.

I located some of the speeches from world leaders. Watch a few. Sure, key messages are cookie-cutter. However, they are being reinforced each time spoken. Here are the opening speeches. Listen to the words of Prince Charles and other literary gems.

Canadian Green Party leader Elizabeth May has been present at many events. Later today, I'll video her message for Canadians. She's one of the founders of this process.

Next time people mention the environment as a single issue, cite this conference and remind folks of this pivotal conference with climate as the focal point, and all the great issues of the world revolving around it.

this was first published on Peter's blog

Peter lives near Bayfront Park in Hamilton's historic North End. He enjoys writing about sustainable possibilities and the local benefits that result. Peter is the Green Party of Ontario Candidate for Hamilton Centre.

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By Capitalist (anonymous) | Posted December 18, 2009 at 15:00:08

Peter,

What is honesty worth?
Ever heard of climategate?

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By grassroots are the way forward (registered) | Posted December 18, 2009 at 17:21:52

Peter writes: If Harper shows his face, there may be many airborne shoes in the room

what a great line!!!

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