The Bloc Québécois Makes An About-face On The Subject Of Biofuels

May 15, 2008

“The Bloc Québécois has abandoned a good environmental measure, farmers and the economies of Québec’s rural communities”
-Christian Paradis

Ottawa – A few days ago, to everyone’s surprise, the Bloc Québécois reversed its positions by stating that it was now going to vote against Bill C-33, which would impose biofuel content targets of 5% for gas and 2% for diesel fuel. This strategy, which will reduce greenhouse gases (GG) by the amount produced by over one million cars, is beneficial for the environment, farmers and the regions. Christian Paradis expressed his indignation, explaining that, besides abandoning an environment-friendly measure, the Bloc Québécois is abandoning the farmers and economies of some of Québec’s rural communities.

Christian Paradis feels that the Bloc Québécois cannot hide behind this ridiculous position, which is just a smokescreen designed to confuse Quebeckers. He stressed the fact that André Bellavance and Ève-Marie Thaï Thi Lac, Bloc critics for agriculture, will have to respond to this change in direction. Once again, Bloc MPs from the regions do not seem to have provided much leadership.

Updating the Conservative strategy

It is important to remember that, contrary to some recent allegations, biofuel production in Canada does not hamper food production. Mr. Paradis explained that, at the end of the day, even when we have achieved our biofuel targets, 95% of Canada’s agricultural land will continue to produce food.

The Conservatives have recognized that, beyond its current biofuel production, Canada must continue producing the next generation of biofuels, such as cellulosic ethanol, which re-uses agricultural and forestry wastes such as straw and wood chips. Secretary of State (Agriculture) Paradis emphasized that this is why Harper’s government is investing 500 million dollars into the development of leading-edge techniques to produce next-generation biofuels. He also stressed that investing in the development of new biofuel technologies, for instance using corn waste and putting corn back into the food chain, would not only help us battle climate change, but would also wield a positive economic impact on our families, workers and farmers.

Recalling that food prices are rising, especially due to the extraordinary increase in demand around the world in places like China and India, the poor harvest in Australia, for example, and substantial energy price hikes, the Secretary of State for Agriculture concluded by reminding us that when other countries need help to combat hunger, Canada steps up. Harper’s government is investing huge sums to fight world hunger, as demonstrated by the 230 million dollars given this year to food assistance programs, making Canada the second most generous donator internationally.