|
canada where is your minister?
biosafety protocol, montreal
Friends of the Earth, the world’s largest
network of environmental groups, has served
notice to the Canadian Government that
Environment Minister, David Anderson’s
presence is urgently requested for the
Biosafety Protocol negotiations in
Montreal.
FOE has posted "Missing Persons" posters
throughout Montreal in an attempt to find the
illusive Canadian Minister. Despite rumours
of mislaid invitations, some thirty-six
ministers from around the world will find
their way to Montreal, but where oh where is
Canada’s Minister?
FOE Campaign’s Director Liana Stupples
said:
"These talks should be a turning point
for humankind. It is no longer acceptable to
allow free trade to be put before the
environment and human welfare. We not only
need a Protocol but a tough one that protects
the world’s wildlife and allows Governments
to stop GMOs if there is uncertainty over
their safety."
Canada, as part of the Miami Group
negotiating party (as well as the US,
Australia, Chile, Uruguay, Argentina) was
instrumental in the collapse of the last
talks in February
1999.
FOE calls on Canada to redeem its tattered
environmental reputation. "
What we
need
," says Beatrice Olivastri, FOE
Canada CEO, "
is a green knight on a
charger jousting against the forces of
darkness– in this case, greed and stupidity
seeking to protect corporate profits over
human health and biodiversity
."
Friends of the Earth is the world’s
largest network of environmental groups. They
campaign in over 64 countries covering all
negotiation parties at the Protocol.
Campaigners are available in Montreal for
comment and briefings in English, French and
Spanish.
For press briefings, background
information and media stories call:
FOE International Adrian Bebb: 514 239 4276
FOE Canada Kathleen Kelso: 613 241 0085
Ext’n 0
|
