Montreal – Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada (MP, Saanich-Gulf Islands), today joined Daniel Green, GPC Deputy Leader, to formally launch Mr. Green’s campaign for the Saint-Laurent by-election.

The Montreal Green Coalition also participated in the media conference. Mr. Green expressed his support for the Coalition, who have been a tireless champion of environmental protection in the region.

"An election is always a good opportunity to send a message to our government. There is no risk of change of government, therefore, voters can demand that the government fulfill its promise,” Ms. May said.

Daniel Green said: “My priority in the campaign will be to provide a voice for all those who fight to preserve the past jewels of our biodiversity.”

He added that residents are still waiting for an Environment Canada decision to protect the wetlands of the Montreal Technoparc, which is home to many birds including the the Least Bittern, a threatened species.

"We will continue to work with the Green Coalition and stakeholders on this issue," Ms. May said.

Mr. Green also promised to take action on the rising cost housings rentals in Saint-Laurent.

“We need federal investment to increase the supply of social housing and more affordable rentals in Saint-Laurent,” Mr. Green said. "Another issue that concerns me is the noise pollution caused by commercial over-flights. If elected, I pledge to work with Transport Canada and the Montreal Trudeau Airport to restrict evening and early morning flights over these residential areas.”

Mr. Green will also draw attention to the environmental risks of the passage of sky-train project in Saint-Laurent: "The construction of proposed REM tunnel under the marshes of Saint- Laurent is another threat to this fragile ecosystem."

Ms. May remarked: “I’ve known Daniel for over 30 years, and I'm sure he will make an excellent MP for Saint-Laurent and will be a strong voice for Quebec in Ottawa.”

Daniel Green concluded by saying: "I want to tell the voters of Saint-Laurent that they have the opportunity on April 3 to elect the first Green MP in Quebec. This is a real opportunity for Saint-Laurent to stand out from the rest of the country.”

Joey Leckman, GPC Quebec spokesperson, noted: “The presence of Elizabeth May and Daniel Green today in Saint-Laurent demonstrates that the Green Party is committed to increasing its presence in Quebec."

-30-

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Robin Marty

Press Secretary – Quebec

robin.marty@greenparty.ca

m: 514-652-3669

or



Dan Palmer

Press Secretary

dan.palmer@greenparty.ca

m: 613-614-4916