Canadian federal Conservatives called on Tuesday for Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault to testify before Parliament after he backed an international shipping levy at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Azerbaijan.
Guilbeault voiced strong support for International Marine Organization discussions about implementing a transportation levy, citing the need to fund climate initiatives in developing nations.
According to the Association of Canadian Port Authorities, the maritime sector employs 353,760 workers and contributes $17 billion to the economy. The Conservatives condemn the proposal as “an expensive scam” that drives up living costs without reducing emissions.
“A new tax on maritime transportation would undoubtedly drive investment and business away from our already struggling port system, putting strong union jobs at risk,” the Conservatives said in a statement.
The minister’s support follows recent World Economic Forum discussions, where global leaders advocated for widespread carbon taxation to address climate emergencies. The timing of Guilbeault’s announcement has intensified domestic debate over Canada’s climate policies.
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