New federal cabinet a positive signal for science and environment

With today's cabinet appointments, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has demonstrated a commitment to tackling issues related to climate change, ocean health, environmental protection and indigenous peoples, according to the David Suzuki Foundation. The Foundation is prepared to work with the new government to develop and strengthen policies around climate change, transportation, energy, ocean health, species and habitat protection and many other issues that are important to Canadians.

The recent election's spike in voter turnout is a signal that Canadians expect positive action on the issues that affect our health and well-being.

"We hope this new government will recognize the value Canadians place on the environment. If we all work together, we can strengthen the economy while protecting the natural systems we depend on for our health, prosperity and well-being," said David Suzuki Foundation CEO Peter Robinson.

Open and transparent governance and a commitment to sound science and evidence-based decision-making will ensure that Canada plays an important role on the world stage and remains a diverse and innovative country with a spectacular and healthy environment.

"This government was elected on an ambitious platform, and the new cabinet and ministries send a signal that they are ready to get started. Ministries like Innovation, Science and Economic Development; Environment and Climate Change; Infrastructure and Communities and a standalone portfolio for science are all good signs," Robinson said.

Robinson added that the United Nations climate negotiations in Paris, less than a month away, will present this government's first big challenge. "Canadians are counting on the new prime minister and environment and climate change minister to work with provincial leaders to develop strong climate policies that represent our national desire to take a leadership role on this critical issue. Canadians deserve nothing less."

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