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The task force, formed of representatives from the conservation community and resource industries, agreed upon several recommendations for stronger federal endangered species legislation after more than a year of discussions. It was a big step forward for interest groups that are commonly thought to be opponents, and we can only hope that the Environment minister heeds their recommendations.
The minister's new proposals for endangered species legislation were presented to cabinet just before the House recessed in late June, and we can expect rapid progress on the legislation this fall. Once the bill has been drafted, it will be open to possible amendments by the Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development, and by individual members of Parliament. Although we don't know precisely when the endangered species legislation will be presented--or what it will contain--we can be sure that our advocacy work is far from over.
One important step each of us should take over the summer is to contact our local member of Parliament at his or her riding office. Since MPs will soon begin preparations for the next election, calls from constituents will be given due attention. Speak to your representative as a voter who supports strong endangered species legislation.
Acting as a group is equally effective. Over 180 Canadian scientists wrote a joint letter to Sheila Copps last November; and more than 60 Canadian artists--including Margaret Atwood, Robert Bateman, and Bruce Cockburn--wrote a similar letter to Sergio Marchi this spring. Encourage your naturalists' club, business, professional association, church, or community group to follow their example. (Agricultural associations should contact Ralph Goodale, Minister of Agriculture; fishing associations should contact Fred Mifflin, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, as well as their local MPs.)
We also encourage you to contact your provincial minister of Environment and wildlife director, asking them to support strong provincial and federal legislation. A "National Framework for Endangered Species Conservation," intended to harmonize federal and provincial/territorial measures to protect endangered species, is now being developed. Over 100 representatives of ENGOs, governments, resource industries, landowner associations, and other interested parties made recommendations to provincial wildlife directors at public consultations in June. Make your voice heard too.
Even with strong legislation in all jurisdictions, prevention and recovery of endangered species will rely on the support and co-operation of individual Canadians. It's up to each of us to keep informed and get involved. Only by working with all levels of society, from individuals to conservation groups to governments, can we help to protect and recover Canada's 253 species at risk.