‘Ambitious’ climate change action key to long-term economic wellbeing, LeBlanc says

Despite actions to fight climate change, Canada is still one of the largest producers of fossil fuels, ranking as the sixth-biggest energy producer in the world.

Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc says taking “ambitious” action to fight climate change in all regions of the country will be crucial to protecting Canada’s long-term economic potential.

In an interview with The West Block guest host Eric Sorenson, LeBlanc said he’s confident the government can work with the provinces to blunt the impacts of climate change, and described Alberta Premier Jason Kenney as a “friend” with whom he had a “cordial and positive'” dialogue.

“We think that Canadians, in every part of the country, including in Alberta, want the government to take concerted, effective action – ambitious action in the fight against climate change,” LeBlanc said.

“But at the same time, (Canadians) recognize that very work is essential to ensuring long term sustainable jobs not only in the resource sectors, but right across the country.”

READ MORE: New federal environment minister says his climate plan is not a ‘secret agenda’

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau unveiled his new cabinet last week, promoting a number of new faces while also removing several familiar ones from trusted positions around the cabinet table.

Among the appointments that have raised questions was the naming of longtime environmental activist Steven Guilbeault as the minister for environment and climate change, and to move the previous environment minister, Jonathan Wilkinson, into the natural resources post.

Former Liberal cabinet minister Anne McLellan said the cabinet suggests a focus on the need for “sustainable, inclusive prosperity.”