The event, organized by the International Trade Union Confederation under the theme “No jobs on a dead planet,” was a stimulating platform for discussion aimed at defining the position of the trade union movement on the burning issue of climate change.
“The fight against climate change requires immediate action that transcends the borders of Canada. Our presence in Paris helped show the world that, contrary to Stephen Harper and the Conservatives, Canadians actually care about the environment and sustainable development,” said Fleury.
Participants conferred on how to set in motion a fair transition to a zero-carbon-emission economy. A number of concrete issues were on the table, many in line with resolutions already adopted by CUPE: the imposition of an international moratorium on hydraulic fracturing; the development of decent jobs in the environment sector; the creation of a just and democratic energy policy or public energy production.
“The public sector is undoubtedly best placed to foster the development of renewable and sustainable energy to the benefit of citizens,” said Fleury.
The Summit will help mobilize trade unions in anticipation of the Paris Climate Conference, to be held in December.
Links:
CUPE National Environment Policy, adopted in the spring of 2013
Additional information on the International Trade Union Conference
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