We should expect better from the Ontario energy minister

Re Energy minister slammed for quoting source that casts doubt on climate change science, Nov. 27

The minister of energy, northern development and mines and indigenous affairs, Greg Rickford, has overseen some odious decisions.

In Mr. Rickford’s own riding of Kenora—Rainy River, lies Grassy Narrows First Nation. The former Liberal government earmarked $85 million for abatement of the mercury contamination at Dryden and along the English—Wabigoon River system, which has affected the health of the people of Grassy Narrows for 50 years. But the $85 million has not been spent. The contamination remains. The health issues remain.

This is unconscionable.

Al Seymour, Coburg, Ont.

Ontario’s minister of energy, Greg Rickford, characterizes himself as a “well-studied man” and a lawyer, yet he quotes from a fringe climate change denier website. Perhaps Rickford is not as well studied as he purports to be.

Neither is he employing logic, a mode of thinking which is to be expected of a lawyer. While it is commendable to hear both sides of any issue, sometimes, when there is overwhelming scientific proof, as is the case with the anthropogenic climate change position, the “other side” does not stand up to scrutiny at all. Climate change is not a matter of opinion any more than the fact that gravity is keeping us from flying off into space is an opinion. Perhaps the minister would seriously entertain arguments from flat-earthers, anti-vaxers and Creationists as well, evidence to the contrary notwithstanding? Science is evidence based, not opinion based. Facts are facts. No amount of posturing or proselytizing can change that. To paraphrase astronomer Neil DeGrasse Tyson, it’s your prerogative to think what you like about the world around you, but that doesn’t change the facts. Climate change is cited as the single most urgent issue facing our planet.

While Minister Rickford claims he is not a climate change denier, his behaviour says just the opposite. To have a minister of energy who rolls back green energy initiatives, tries to stop the federal carbon levy and quotes from fringe websites is just beyond the pale and highly irresponsible.

Pandering to his voter base, rather than pursuing positive action to reduce greenhouse gases, does all of us a huge disservice. We should all expect better from our elected officials.

Jonathan O’Mara, Whitby