Score one for the Conservatives in the constant legislative and political battle we have come to know as “Climate Change”. 

This article by Stephen Chase in today’s Globe and Mail confirms that the government has secured a high-profile and credible endorsement confirming that the Canadian economy will be crippled if we try to meet the Kyoto Accords deadline for reducing greenhouse gases.

Don Drummond, chief economist for TD Banks is quoted as saying “I believe the economic costs would be at least as deep as the recession in the early 1980s.” He goes on to state that “[I] sincerely hope no serious consideration is being given to implement the policy.”

At this point, I am sure the heads of most environmentalists are spinning in an attempt to come up with quick ideas to refute these statements.  However, in a very wise political move the government solicited an expert who in the past has criticized their policies, and who has accepted no pay for his latest opinion.  Mr. Drummond has also provided past consultation to political parties of all stripes, eliminating any arguments that he is a conservative shill. 

With the Environment likely to be one of the eminent issues in the forthcoming election, the current government can make vast strides towards implementing their own plan to fight climate change. 

It will be hard for many Canadians to disagree with an environment plan that also protects our economy if our politicians continue to back up their policy with unbiased expert opinion.