Party promises a vibrant, Green economy

The Green party has released its complete election platform.

Dufferin — Caledon Green party candidate Ard Van Leeuwen praised the platform for its brevity and its clarity.

"The central message of my campaign here in Dufferin — Caledon and of the party on a national level is fiscally responsible environmental leadership," commented Van Leeuwen. "We want to conserve our country's economic prosperity while discouraging pollution."

The plan will use money from taxes on greenhouse gas emissions and toxic pollutants to support tax cuts for individuals and businesses, education, poverty reduction, and to support measures to help companies lead Canada into the post-carbon economy.

"I was at the local Eco- Energy show in Orangeville last weekend and I met all kinds of business people who see the potential in going green," Van Leeuwen remarked. "We can take advantage of a tremendous business opportunity by supporting the renewable energy sector. Expanding wind, solar, geothermal and biofuel industries can create jobs here in Dufferin — Caledon."

For decades the C.D. Howe Institute has been the gold standard in Canada for public policy leadership. The think tank's recommendations include an emission cap and tradable permit system, a renewable energy portfolio, vehicle emission standards, carbon sequestration requirements and improved energy efficiency standards for buildings and equipment. More and more economists the world over are recommending that a green economy is not only advisable, but indeed necessary for future prosperity.

For more information, visit www.electgreen.ca or www.greenparty.com