Canada says can overrule provinces and ratify Kyoto
Date: 25-Feb-02
Country: CANADA
Some of Canada's provinces have questioned ratifying the accord for competitive reasons in light of the U.S. decision not to do so, and Environment Minister David Anderson has pledged to consult with them before making a decision.
But he said Ottawa ultimately has the responsibility for deciding. "It's a matter of constitutional law, and the Constitution was settled in 1867," Anderson told reporters.
"The Constitution is clear. The federal government has responsibility for treaties."
An opposition member of Parliament, the New Democratic Party's Lorne Nystrom, countered that energy and the environment are shared responsibility, requiring engaging the provinces in negotiations.
