SPRING 2015

The Council of www.canadians.org

WE #PLEDGE2 PROTECT WATER

ALSO INSIDE: CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF ACTING FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE | YOUTH CAN BE ELECTION GAME CHANGERS CANADA’S AND LOSE LEGISLATIVE PROTECTION | NOT A DONE DEAL: EUROPEAN COUNTRIES OPPOSE CETA

Letters to the Editor

We must increase voter turnout Letters in the Autumn 2014 edition of Canadian Perspectives reflect a hopeful and persisting interest in voter turnout. Members of the Council of Canadians’ Montreal Chapter joined Eau Secours! for a rally and march in Trois-Rivières, Quebec on World Water Day to speak out against TransCanada’s plans for a ma- Fair Vote Canada is actively pursuing the rine terminal for the Energy East pipeline. TransCanada has withdrawn the terminal plan. implementation of various proportional repre- sentation models. Elections Canada focused What Canadians want? necessary government permits, companies its annual “Canada’s Democracy Week” Re: “Why Canadians won’t bother voting,” have to negotiate “social permission.” on increasing voter participation among Autumn 2014 issue of Canadian Perspectives Canada’s youth. Sociologists and political The degree of social licence obtained is strategists have studied declining voter turn- The letter writer states that the current often based on three elements: the proj- out for quite some time and the results have federal government was elected with 38 ect may be acceptable, unacceptable, or not affected voter participation. Awareness per cent of the vote. acceptable with certain conditions. programs for the varied voter demographics in our country have borne similar results. In fact, the government was elected with For social licence to fully take place, the votes from approximately 25 per cent of communities must have clear and adequate While social experimentation can create the eligible voters. knowledge, based on independent scien- change, applying any of the proportional tific research, of the potential risks, the representation models creates problems. The With a 60 per cent turnout of voters, and advantages and the impacts of a project. In progressive selection of subsequent models, 38 per cent voting Conservative, the cur- other words, be able to make an informed educating voters, administering each new rent government has the support of slight- decision based on all of the possible impli- electoral model, and evaluating its results ly less than 25 per cent of eligible voters. cations of the project that will affect their could create hope that a new model might community. They must have an opportunity increase turnout. But the gradual changes, if On this basis, the government has trashed to engage in a meaningful discussion as to they do occur, will accrue over generations science, regulation powers, water resourc- the values of the project and its develop- and only if the political authorities carry a es, and more supposedly because it ment to the society at large. And they must long-term commitment to the issue. “knows what Canadians want.” have the ability to say “no” to a project.

Regrettably, time is working against us. Robert Hamm, Steinbach, MB In a sense, social licence is more than a Canada’s democracy, its civil liberties and social moral obligation, it is a social contract to be programs are declining. There is a need now Social licence obtained and respected. Without it, consid- to seriously consider the viability of mandatory A concept that has become a significant part er the project as a hostile take-over. voting which, incidentally, does not eliminate of the popular discourse in most new energy or hinder the added strategies of implement- projects is the notion of “social licence.” Raymond Cusson ing popular representation or addressing the Whether it is fracking in Newfoundland and Shoal Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador factors that affect voter turnout. Labrador, mining or pipelines in Quebec or the Maritimes, or LNG terminals and pipe- The need to increase voter turnout is urgent. lines in northern British Columbia, industry Mandatory voting is not an end in itself. and governments are being asked to obtain Send us your letters! It should be an essential part of effective some level of permission from communities. Canadian Perspectives legislative reform. Perceived as a form of approval and resistance The Council of Canadians for the communities or, at the very least, a 300-251 Bank Street It is time for a full debate on mandatory direct involvement in the decision-making Ottawa, Ontario K2P 1X3 voting. process, it is often viewed as a problem and Email: [email protected] another obstacle to go through by the proj- Attention: Editor, Canadian Perspectives André Clément, Sudbury, Ontario ect proponents. In addition to obtaining the www.canadians.org Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 3 Council of Canadians National Chairperson Maude Barlow travelled to Berlin in April to debate German Chancellor Angela Merkel on austerity and the impacts of trade agreements.

On the Road with Pavel Becker Maude Barlow

Dear friends, bring to these complex issues. They give expose the Harper agenda and promote an me hope for the future. alternative positive vision for our country. It’s been another jam-packed fall and win- ter. The highlights on my schedule have In April I was in Berlin where I debated We can change this country and we are been the tours across Canada, meeting with Chancellor Angela Merkel on austerity and reminding people that one of the best wonderful activists and caring Canadians spoke at a large public forum in advance ways to effect change is to Go Vote! and, of course, celebrating our organiza- of the June G7 meeting there. I am also to tion’s 30th anniversary with all of you. keynote a large conference in Burlington, We also launched a constitutional chal- Vermont in June, of the International lenge along with the Canadian Federation December in Newfoundland marked the Association for Great Lakes Research. I of Students against the so-called “Fair end of a deeply moving 15-city tour can hardly wait to share my research on Elections Act,” as it not only makes it hard- with CUPE President Paul Moist to pro- how the Great Lakes are being used as a er for students, First Nations and those mote public health care. At every stop, conduit for the dirtiest energy on Earth, who move for employment to vote, but Canadians told us heart-wrenching stories and how we must declare the Great Lakes also will make it harder for the public to of what medicare means to them and how to be a commons and a public trust to be find out about the kind of electoral fraud cuts to health care are affecting patients protected forever. that took place in the last federal election. and front-line workers alike. During the tour, CUPE and Council of Canadians All our attention is now turning to the We are involved in many coalitions and supporters knocked on over 42,000 doors upcoming fall federal election. I have writ- networks dedicated to exposing the harm and we sent out almost 200,000 leaflets ten two reports on the Harper agenda. Blue that has been done to human rights, envi- promoting a renewed health accord. Betrayal: The Harper government’s assault ronmental protection, working people, on Canada’s freshwater tells a deeply dis- the poor, First Nations, veterans, scientists, The second and third legs of our Energy turbing story about the systematic way in women and many others by this govern- East pipeline “Our Risk – Their Reward” which this government has gone about ment. While the Council of Canadians is tours were another incredible highlight for not only dismantling regulatory protection – and remains – non-partisan, we retain the me. For two weeks in the fall, we visited of our water, but also cementing that right to criticize governments of any political communities in New Brunswick and Nova deregulation through corporate-friendly stripe that bring harm to our institutions and Scotia, holding feisty town halls; meeting trade and investment deals. values in the way this government has done. with elected officials, union representa- tives and First Nations leaders; and speak- The second report, Broken Covenant: How We look forward to working with all of you ing with countless journalists. The process set out to silence dissent to bring about a new day for our coun- was repeated in April on the Prairies tour and curtail democratic participation in try. Thank you for all you have done over and we were met with enthusiasm and Canada, gives a detailed account of the sys- the past 30 years to make the Council of hope. We are creating a wall of grassroots tematic way in which this government has Canadians a strong, vibrant voice for people resistance to this pipeline all along its route broken not only the ties with civil society by committed to building a better Canada. and I feel very sure it will never be built. defunding NGOs and auditing the charitable status of “enemies,” but also by cutting the With hope and resolve, I have also visited many school campus- departmental staff and agencies that kept es here and in the United States to talk these ties alive. It is a very disturbing story about the global water crisis and the fight and one we must get out to Canadians. for water justice. I am always touched and moved by the enthusiasm, commit- As I write this, we are preparing for a Maude Barlow is the National Chairperson of the ment and optimism that young people large cross-Canada tour with many allies to Council of Canadians.

4 Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 The Council of Canadians Celebrating 30 Years of Acting for Social Justice

In 1985, with a Mulroney government Ronald Reagan’s visit to Ottawa. The Pro- 1994 Maude Barlow writes a letter to that had declared Canada “open for busi- Canada Network (later the Action Canada the Council’s membership asking for ness” and the Canada-U.S. Free Trade Network) is created and its members march their advice: “We have lost twice now Agreement looming, the Council of down to Parliament Hill and post the (the passage of the FTA and NAFTA), and Canadians formed to give Canadians Canada Summit Declaration on the front perhaps it is time to accept defeat and a voice. As corporations grew in power, door of Centre Block. move on.” The response is overwhelm- and governments – federal and provin- ing – members declare that the Council cial – focused more on the interests of 1988 Newly elected Council of Canadians is needed now more than ever. With big business and resource extractions, Chairperson Maude Barlow, along with the federal government poised to grant the Council of Canadians found creative Canadian Auto Workers President Bob White, Monsanto the right to market bovine ways to highlight social, economic and debate free trade with Premier Peter growth hormone (BGH) in Canada, the environmental injustices. Over the past Lougheed and corporate lobbyist Tom d’Aqui- Council builds a strong national coali- 30 years we have been a part of many no on national television. While Lougheed tion, organizes a campaign, and in 1998 creative and inspiring actions and, most and d’Aquino speak in generalities, White wins a moratorium against the introduc- importantly, we have been supported by and Barlow focus on the technicalities and tion of BGH in Canada. people who truly believe a better Canada the destructive nature of the agreement. – and a better world – is possible. 1996 The Council holds a demonstra- 1991 The Council, along with Friends of tion outside the finance ministers’ meet- Here are some highlights: Canadian Broadcasting and the Canadian ing in Ottawa to protest planned cuts to 1985 On March 11, the Council of Union of Public Employees, forms a coalition the Canada Pension Plan (CPP). Council Canadians is founded by publisher, author called “100 Days of Action” to try to stop members present Finance Minister Paul and political activist Mel Hurtig with the drastic cuts to the CBC. More than 1,000 Martin and his provincial counterparts with goals of “a new and better Canada with employees and 11 regional production cen- 100,000 petitions against the cuts. The more and better jobs for Canadians, a tres were to be cut in the 1991 federal bud- government of British Columbia agrees and higher standard of living for Canadians, get. The public outcry forces the government blocks Martin’s plans to cut the CPP. and a sovereign Canada that plays an to back off on some of the planned cuts. important role among the world commu- 1998 A new global investment treaty of nity of nations.” In August, the Council 1992 The Council takes over the signing unprecedented power sets off a firestorm makes a bold statement by renting a plane ceremony for the new North American Free of protest, much of it led by the Council. and dropping a Canadian flag on the bow Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Activists hold up When negotiations for the Multilateral of an American icebreaker after it entered an American flag behind Prime Minister Brian Agreement on Investment (MAI) break Canadian waters without permission. Mulroney in a photo that is flashed around down, the Council launches a coast-to- the world. Maude Barlow yells to Mulroney, coast inquiry into what values and policies 1987 The Council organizes a “Canada “You promised to protect basic democracy. Canadians want their government to put Summit” to coincide with U.S. President You have failed to keep your promise.” forward in international negotiations. www.canadians.org Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 5 With four of Canada’s biggest banks set The Council launches its Citizens’ Inquiry and clean drinking water and sanitation.” to merge, and with the loss of thousands on Canada-U.S. Relations to counter an all- The resolution, presented by the Bolivian of jobs and the closure of hundreds out push by the business elite of Canada government, has 122 countries vote in of local branches at stake, the Council to promote deep integration with the its favour, while 41 countries – including launches a well-publicized cross-country United States. Deep integration includes a Canada – abstain. campaign to convince Finance Minister common market and border, a guaranteed Paul Martin to reject the merger plans. and uninterrupted supply of energy to the 2011 The Council fights to protect healthy By December, Martin rules against the U.S., and participation in George W. Bush’s lakes and rivers from “Schedule 2,” a legal mergers. The International Monetary defence and “security” initiatives. loophole that allows mining companies Fund has said recently that stopping dump toxic waste into a body of water these bank mergers helped Canada 2005 The Council comes full circle and and permanently destroy it. decades later during the most recent renews its fight for Canadian sovereignty economic downturn. and democracy by focusing its energies 2012 The Council supports a Federal opposing the threat of deeper econom- Court legal challenge by eight Canadians 1999 With international partners, the ic integration with the United States. to overturn 2011 federal election results Council launches a national education We centre our fight on the Security and in six ridings following the “robocall” and action campaign to confront the Prosperity Partnership of North America scandal, which saw misleading phone calls “Millennium Round” negotiations of the (SPP), signed this year between Canada, directing some voters to the wrong polling World Trade Organization (WTO). The out- the United States and Mexico, and ques- station address. break of democracy on the streets during tion why the expansive deal never makes the “Battle in Seattle” leads to the com- it to Parliament for public debate. 2013 Through “Common Causes” the plete collapse of the WTO talks. Council joins with other groups to support 2007 Thousands of people converge in First Nations’ Idle No More movement in 2000 The Council challenges attempts by Montebello, Quebec, to protest the SPP protest against federal government omni- the world’s biggest water corporations to as Prime Minister Stephen Harper meets bus budget bills that gut key parts of privatize the planet’s . In the behind cl osed doors with U.S. President Canada’s environmental legislation. process, a new international network of George Bush and Mexican President Felipe activists is formed composed of people Calderón. A teach-in organized by the In May, a Federal Court judge rules that committed to promoting universal recog- Council draws more than 1,500 people election fraud occurred in the 2011 federal nition of water as a fundamental human from across Canada and around the world. election and the most likely source of the right and to halting efforts by corporations fraud was the Conservative party’s database. to control and commodify it. 2008 Along with First Nations communi- ties, the Council raises awareness about 2014 The Council of Canadians galvanizes 2001 The Council works as part of a the devastating impacts of the Alberta- communities that would be impacted by the broad-based movement to counter the and Saskatchewan-based tar sands. Energy East pipeline project, which would Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) Witnessing the destruction of massive convert a natural gas pipeline – parts of negotiations in Quebec City. The result is areas of ravaged earth and vast amounts which are up to 40 years old – to carry crude one of the biggest demonstrations ever of water turned into toxic tailing ponds oil from Saskatchewan to Ontario, connect- held in Canada. Committed activists with first-hand, Maude Barlow calls the tar ing it with new pipeline through Quebec thoughtful alternatives to free trade are sands “Canada’s Mordor,” referring to and on to Saint John, New Brunswick. If met by tear gas, water-cannon spray and Tolkien’s vision of a barren wasteland in approved, it would be the largest oil pipeline rubber bullets. Lord of the Rings. in North America, transporting 1.1 million barrels of oil every day. The Council contin- 2002 The Council gives the Romanow 2009 The Council celebrates two major ues to challenge massive pipeline projects Commission on the Future of Health Care victories: The secretive SPP deal is defeated that would lead to the expansion of the tar in Canada the clear message that health and plans for Site 41, a landfill proposed sands and more fracking. care must be properly funded, that it in Simcoe County, Ontario, on top of an should be expanded to include phar- containing “some of the purest 2015 This year, the Council of Canadians macare and homecare, and that it must be water in the world,” are abandoned fol- celebrates 30 years of bringing Canadians protected from international trade agree- lowing a long fight for the protection together to act for social justice. With ments. The Council holds public events in of this water source by community resi- the generous help of our supporters, 15 cities across Canada where Romanow dents, First Nations, Council supporters we maintain a strong commitment to Commission hearings are being held. and chapter activists. protecting our fresh water, strengthening public health care, fighting for fair trade 2004 Bowing to pressure from consum- 2010 After years of work to build an deals, and working for climate justice. ers and organizations like the Council international water movement, on July Our campaigns come to life thanks to the of Canadians, Monsanto abandons its 28, 2010, the United Nations General generous donations and actions of our application to produce and sell genetically Assembly overwhelmingly agrees to a res- supporters and the volunteer efforts of engineered wheat in Canada. olution declaring the human right to “safe our chapter activists.

6 Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 The Council of Canadians Lawyer Steven Shrybman, Jessica McCormick of the Canadian Federation of Students, and Garry Neil from the Council of Canadians held a press conference on Parliament Hill in February an- nouncing the filing of more than 2,000 pages of evidence in the Charter challenge against the so-called “Fair” Elections Act. Dylan Penner

Lawyer Steven Shrybman, Jessica McCormick by Dylan Penner of the Canadian Federation of Students, and Garry Neil from the Council of Canadians held a press conference on Parliament Hill in February announcing the filing of more than 2,000 pages of evidence in the Charter chal- Go Vote for the Change lenge against the so-called “Fair” Elections Act. You Want to See

Our democracy is in crisis. Our rights break his own election law and call ballots, including two out of three to free speech, to protest, to vote in the vote much sooner if he thinks the young people. free and fair elections, and the right Conservative party can win. to not be subjected to widespread, It’s not about apathy, it’s about is- invasive and unjustifiable state sur- The outcome of the election will sues. Many potential voters are tun- veillance are all being threatened. likely depend on the answer to two ing out of electoral politics because The erosion of these democratic questions: how effective can we be they don’t see the issues that matter rights has brought us to a tipping at countering voter suppression and to them reflected in the political dis- point in the relationship between how can we significantly increase cussions. Many others want to vote, the people and our government. voter turnout? but face systemic barriers that deter, or even prevent them from doing so. It’s time for change and this is our Why so many people opportunity to choose a path to a dif- aren’t voting Voter turnout has been in decline ferent future. In the last election 6,200 votes in 14 since 1988, but the current feder- ridings meant the difference between al government has made a particu- The fixed date of the next federal majority and minority government. lar contribution to decreasing voter election is about five months away. Meanwhile, more than 9.4 million turnout by taking voter suppression However, Stephen Harper could eligible Canadian voters didn’t cast to a whole new level.

www.canadians.org Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 7 In 2011, we now know there was an damental rights. This election is our and give people the tools they need in orchestrated campaign across hun- collective opportunity to change the the lead-up to the next election. Fol- dreds of ridings to mislead people political landscape for the better. lowing the town halls, we will orga- about the location of their polling sta- nize local vote canvass teams, build- tions in order to prevent them from Changing the rules of the game ing on the important groundwork that voting. A Federal Court justice found It’s time for change. We need a gov- has already begun with our “Game that the source of the information ernment that champions policies that Changers Tour” that has been reach- used for these calls was the Conserva- reflect our communities’ priorities. ing out to young voters. We hope you tive party database. Rather than assist will consider taking the Voter Pledge authorities in finding the ringleaders That change starts with this elec- and joining your friends and neigh- of this election fraud, the Conserva- tion, but at a deeper level we need bours to canvass your communities. tive party has refused to disclose who to change the system that disenfran- had access to the database. The per- chises millions who don’t get a vote If you and everyone reading this is- petrators remain at large. in the decisions that impact their sue of Canadian Perspectives get just daily lives. We need to deepen demo- two people who weren’t planning on The 2011 election fraud was then used cratic participation – voting once ev- voting to take the pledge to vote in as a pretext to introduce the so-called ery few years is just the beginning of the next federal election, it could in- “Fair” Elections Act. But instead of a more participatory politics. crease the number of ballots cast by reducing voter suppression and elec- tens of thousands. tion fraud, the act will make it easier We need to change the relationship for both to occur. On top of this, the between the general public and the Deepening our capacity for commu- government has introduced Bill C-50, people we choose to represent us in nity organizing can lead to important which will extend voter suppression Parliament. There are two important victories on key campaigns local- provisions of the “Fair” Elections Act ways we can do this. ly, regionally and federally. And so, to Canadians living abroad. regardless of which party wins the next election, we will have a stronger The Council of Canadians worked In the last election 6,200 votes grassroots movement that has clearer with other groups across the coun- in 14 ridings meant the dif- common goals and more capacity to try to defeat some of the worst parts challenge and change the status quo. of the “Fair” Elections Act. However, ference between majority and several sections remain in the legisla- minority government. Dylan Penner is the Democracy Campaigner for tion that could disenfranchise tens of the Council of Canadians. thousands of voters. We’re challeng- ing those provisions in court with the First, we need to ensure the ma- Canadian Federation of Students and jority of those elected commit to Taking Action three individual voters. much-needed democratic voting re- for Fair Elections form to replace our outdated first- The Council of Canadians, the What’s at stake in this election? past-the-post voting system. Fair Canadian Federation of Students, The Conservatives’ record speaks Vote Canada’s Declaration of Voters’ and three individual electors have for itself: gutting public services like Rights is an important organizing filed more than 2,000 pages of health care and home mail delivery; tool for building the necessary mo- powerful evidence for our charter attacking workers’ rights; decimating mentum to make this a reality. challenge of the so-called “Fair” environmental protections while ex- Elections Act. At the time of publi- panding support for the tar sands and Second, it’s time for a “people’s plat- cation, we asked for a court order fracking; silencing opposition voices, form.” Political parties’ platforms, to quash parts of the act that will including whistleblowers and chari- which outline what each party com- suppress the votes of tens of thou- ties; undermining the right to water mits to do if elected, are key fea- sands of qualified electors. and the rights of Indigenous peoples; tures of every election. A peoples’ sabotaging international agreements; platform would give people a voice For the latest on this ground- promoting corporate rights pacts like and make it clear what we want from breaking legal challenge visit our CETA; expanding war and militarism; those seeking office. website at www.canadians.org/ and much, much more. charter-challenge. Building grassroots power The Council of Canadians is non-par- By the time you read this, the Coun- For all the latest updates on the tisan and therefore won’t be support- cil of Canadians will be in the midst Council of Canadians’ Democracy ing any specific candidates or par- of a series of democracy town halls campaign, visit www.canadians. ties, but we do want a government from coast to coast. These important org/democracy. that won’t undermine our most fun- events will help educate and inform,

8 Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 The Council of Canadians Brigette DePape, the Council of Canadians Youth Can be Youth Vote Campaigner, worked with students to gather pledges from youth who are prom- ising to vote in the next federal election. The Election Game Council’s Game Changers Tour is encouraging Changers and inspiring more young people to vote.

The Council of Canadians stands up sign, is leading a new Council of Ca- DePape is speaking with youth on for democracy as a fundamental pil- nadians’ campaign aimed at inspiring their turf, peer to peer. Studies reveal lar of our society. As the next fed- a movement of young and first-time a strong correlation between personal eral election approaches, we will voters to “Go Vote!” contact and increased voter turnout. be in communities across Canada to She is working with students and com- give people the tools and informa- munity leaders to organize creative ac- tion they need to make an informed Through these efforts we hope tions and canvass in swing ridings to choice at the ballot box. to engage and inspire 1 million reach out to other young voters. young voters and build mo- In the last federal election more than Through these efforts we hope to en- 9.4 million eligible voters did not vote. mentum to Election Day. gage and inspire 1 million young voters The largest group was youth – nearly and build momentum to Election Day. two out of every three people between the ages of 18 and 24 didn’t cast bal- In March and April DePape was on Informed and empowered youth can lots. In contrast, the Conservative party the “Game Changer Tour” in six cities be the game changers in the 2015 won its majority in 2011 by only 6,201 across Canada, connecting with young federal election. votes in 14 closely contested ridings. voters, equipping them with knowl- edge, and galvanizing them to take For more information about the Brigette DePape, widely known for action in the lead-up to the election. Council of Canadians’ Game Chang- her brave act of standing up in the More tour stops are being planned as ers campaign, visit our website at Senate holding up a “Stop Harper” the federal election date draws nearer. www.canadians.org/iwillvote.

www.canadians.org Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 9 A Recovery Plan for Water Is More Important Than Ever by Maude Barlow

Twenty-two years ago, the United Massive water diversion for flood ir- attributed solely to the burning of Nations General Assembly declared rigation and the over-exploitation of fossil fuels. The fact that destroying March 22 World Water Day. In a groundwater has left large areas of the water-retentive landscapes is a major world facing a severe and growing world without water. The destruction cause of climate change is not part of water crisis without a road map, this of the Aral Sea and Chad – once the analysis or discussion in climate day is more important than ever. the fourth and sixth largest lakes in the change circles. world respectively – was not caused by Our collective abuse of water has caused climate change. It was a result of relent- As a consequence, flawed as it is, there the planet to enter “a new geologic age” less extraction for commodity exports. is a very serious process to deal with – a “planetary transformation” akin to climate change, including an annual cli- the retreat of the glaciers more than The drought crisis in California is not mate summit every December and mul- 11,000 years ago. This is according to caused by climate change per se, but tiple preparatory meetings in between. 500 renowned scientists brought to- rather by the massive engineering of But there is no corresponding process to gether in Bonn at the invitation of UN the state’s water supplies to provide for deal with the global water crisis. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in May a handful of powerful farmers. A huge 2013. A majority of the world’s pop- amount of the state’s water is exported Water must be addressed as an issue in ulation lives within 30 miles of water as “virtual water” embedded in export and of itself. There is an urgent need to sources that are badly impaired or run- commodities. The Ogallala Aquifer is create a global recovery plan for water. ning out, the scientists said. not being depleted by climate change, Key components would include water- but by unrelenting extraction, mostly shed protection, conservation and res- The water crisis is also our greatest for corn ethanol. toration, and strong local, national and security threat. This is according to international commitments to put water 900 global experts asked to assess Removing water from water-retentive protection at the heart of all laws and the world’s biggest global risks in landscapes leaves behind parched policies, among other things. advance of the World Economic Fo- lands and desertification, another rum’s annual meeting. Another glob- cause of the water crisis. Removing Five years ago, the United Nations Gen- al study warns that by 2030, demand vegetation from water-retentive land- eral Assembly adopted a historic reso- for water will outstrip supply by 40 scapes changes the water patterns for- lution. It recognized water and sanita- per cent. Lack of access to clean wa- ever. The current crisis in Brazil – once tion as fundamental human rights. It ter is already by far the greatest killer a water-rich country – is largely due to is urgent that the United Nations and of children. the destruction of the rainforest. Take world leaders now take the next step down the forests and the hydrologic toward a water-secure future. They While recognized as real, the water crisis cycle is negatively affected. need to commit to creating a glob- is usually seen as a symptom of climate al water recovery plan for water that change, itself caused by excessive green- Because the water crisis is misdiag- has its own convention, plan of action, house gas emissions. Droughts are almost nosed, we do not have the right solu- and the resources needed to meet the always reported as the result of climate tions to solve the crisis. World lead- greatest threat of our time. change. While no doubt greenhouse gas ers, elected officials and international emission–driven climate change does institutions wrap the water crisis in Maude Barlow is the National Chairperson have an important and negative impact with their research and deliberations of the Council of Canadians and has been a on watersheds, warming temperatures on climate change. If water is men- leader in the fight for the human right to water. and speeding up evaporation, there is an- tioned at all, it is as one more vic- This article originally appeared on the website other story that needs to be told. tim of climate change, almost always Common Dreams.

10 Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 The Council of Canadians 2014 Annual Report www. canadians.org

The Council of Canadians has been built on the vision and determination of people across Canada who believe a better Canada – and a better world – are possible.

Our many campaign efforts are almost entirely sup- ported by generous donations from people like you. And our independence as an organization is main- tained by not accepting any money from corporations or governments. This independence allows us to speak out clearly and freely with a powerful, collective voice.

Join us in reflecting on the positive change you helped make possible in 2014.

www.canadians.org Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 11 Taking action With a network of 60 volunteer chapters across Canada, we organize hard-hitting campaigns to protect water, strengthen public health care, and demand trade and climate justice.

There are many people who help in these efforts, including our tireless Chairperson Maude Barlow, our national Board of Directors, our staff in Ottawa and regional offices across Canada, our chapter activists who put these campaigns and progressive issues into action, and of course, our com- mitted supporters who make it all possible.

Fighting for fair elections Early in 2014, the Harper government announced election rule changes in its so-called “Fair” Elections Act. The new rules would have made it harder for some people – including students, the elderly and Indigenous people – to vote. It would prevent the Chief Elections Officer from sharing important information with voters, such as investigations into election fraud, which we saw in the 2011 federal elec- tion. And it would put an end to public outreach campaigns encouraging people, especially youth, to vote.

With the Canadian Federation of Students, we helped organize rallies across the coun- try. We delivered more than 80,000 peti- tions to Parliament Hill, calling for the “Unfair” Elections Act to be dumped. While the Conservative government removed some of the most egregious parts of the proposed rule changes, it did not go far enough. So once again we joined with the Canadian Federation of Students to launch a constitutional challenge to the parts of the act that infringe on democracy.

Your generous support has ensured that the fight to protect everyone’s right to vote freely in elections will be heard.

Supporting Indigenous struggles The Council of Canadians works closely with Indigenous peoples in our campaigns. In June 2014, we celebrated a Supreme Court of Canada decision that granted the Tsilhqot’in title over lands in British Columbia. The Council of Canadians and our Williams Lake chapter were interveners in the case in support of the Tsilhqot’in claim. Our submission argued for the recognition

12 Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 The Council of Canadians of title more broadly and liberally, rather Energy East pipeline project, which, if built, than just for isolated pockets of land. This would ship 1.1 million barrels of oil per was the first time the Supreme Court of day, picked up steam in 2014. We visited Canada has ruled on a specific claim to many communities along the pipeline’s title, and experts say it could be the most route to raise awareness and connect important case in the history of Aboriginal with local groups saying “no” to the rights development in Canada. pipeline. We are effectively building a wall of grassroots resistance to TransCanada’s Protecting water broken pipeline plan and promoting what The Council of Canadians has always Canadians really want: clean energy alter- been willing to wade into a water fight. In natives to tar sands expansion. 2014, we drew attention to how moving extreme energy, including tar sands ship- In 2014 we released two hard-hitting ments, pipelines and fracked gas, on the reports about the pipeline: Where Oil Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence Meets Water addresses the risks the puts these important waterways, which pipeline poses to more than 90 water- millions of people rely on for drinking sheds and 960 waterways along its route water, in danger. between Alberta and New Brunswick. In the report Energy East: When the pipe- We continued to turn more communi- line spills, we looked at TransCanada’s ties “blue” with our Blue Communities pipeline safety record and revealed the Project. This project gives people the devastating damage a toxic bitumen spill tools they need to encourage their local would cause. governments to recognize water as a human right, promote publicly financed Our campaign must have been hitting the water and wastewater facilities, and ban mark because in November Greenpeace the purchase and sale of bottled water released leaked documents that showed in public facilities. In 2014 we celebrated TransCanada had hired Edelman, an Tay Township in Ontario; Cambuquira, American public relations firm known for Brazil; and Zurich, Switzerland all becom- its dirty tactics, to discredit the Council of ing Blue Communities. Canadians and other groups working to stop this massive project. The Council’s Blue Planet Project works globally for water justice with allies from With 350.org and Leadnow, we launched around the world to inform, motivate a “People’s Intervention” to convince the and inspire people and governments to National Energy Board, the approval body implement the United Nations’ declara- for the project, to take climate impacts tion of water as a human right. In 2014, into account when evaluating the pipe- we worked with local organizations to line project. bring international attention to Detroit, Michigan, where thousands of people With growing concern about the grim unable to pay their soaring water bills, face realities of climate change and diminish- water shut-offs. In July, Maude Barlow, ing energy resources globally, we support along with members of our Windsor chap- communities fighting energy projects that ter, delivered 1,000 litres of public water to will destroy their land, water and air. We Detroit as a symbol of solidarity. continue to push the Canadian govern- ment for strong policies that protect our We also put a spotlight on the Canadian environment and focus on renewable and government’s shameful record on the right sustainable energy solutions. to water, particularly as it relates to mining and the commodification of water abroad. No fracking way! We lobbied for action here in Canada, The fight against fracking intensified in where many communities, including First 2014 as we called on the federal gov- Nations, do not have access to the clean ernment to ban the extraction process water resources they need to live. that uses massive amounts of water, chemicals and sand to get at trapped Energy East is underground gas reserves. Across the “Our Risk – Their Reward” country, awareness is growing about Our campaign to stop TransCanada’s massive the negative impacts of fracking, which www.canadians.org Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 13 include contaminated water, health con- what was being promised in the deal. We are pushing for a new accord that cerns, pollution and more. Unsurprisingly, the Harper government strengthens and expands medicare to denied the request. include a national pharmacare program To help people in communities across and better long-term care, home care Canada win the fight against frack- We presented concerns about the deal at and mental health care so people have ing, we launched an on-line “Fractivist’s a parliamentary trade committee meet- access to the services they need. But Toolkit.” The toolkit includes informa- ing, and celebrated when a German more importantly, we are sounding the tion about fracking happening across television show released the full text. alarm about the Harper government’s Canada, case studies of what people As expected, the deal includes contro- systematic dismantling of our public have done to stop fracking in their com- versial investor-state dispute settlement health care system. munities, and ways to take action. Find it rights that will allow corporations to sue on-line at www.canadians.org/fractivists. governments for policies and laws that In 2014 we joined with CUPE for the impede their profits. Germany stated it “Save Our Public Health Care” tour In 2014, we celebrated New Brunswick’s would not sign on if the deal includes that included 16 town halls in eight moratorium on fracking, and we continue those investor-state provisions. different provinces. We held numerous to push for bans across Canada. workshops in each location and spoke Council chapters also rallied against the to people about how we can all work Pushing for fair trade secrecy of the Trans-Pacific Partnership in our communities to fight to save our The Council of Canadians’ 30-year history (TPP), a free trade zone of 12 countries medicare. Council of Canadians and is rooted in speaking out against trade including Canada, representing 40 per CUPE supporters knocked on almost deals that hurt people, the environment cent of the world’s economy. Chapter 50,000 doors across Canada, and chat- and social policies. members and supporters took part in a ted with ordinary Canadians about medi- continental day of action against the TPP. care. Everywhere we went Canadians In 2014, we continued the fight In July, we blew the lid on the secret loca- expressed a strong desire to maintain our against the Canada–European Union tion of TPP meetings with a large banner public health care system. Comprehensive Economic and Trade in the shape of a very big arrow. Agreement (CETA) here in Canada and Common Causes and overseas. We called on the federal gov- Strengthening public health care sinking the Harper agenda ernment to make the details of the The Harper government has made it clear Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the deal public. We submitted an Access to it does not support a new health care Conservative government are systemati- Information request for the text of a accord. The government let the previous cally eroding, dismantling and endan- deal so Canadians could see exactly deal expire in March. gering key programs and values in this

14 Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 The Council of Canadians country. Attacks on public services, work- agenda. This theme carried through to our sheets and hard-hitting reports, provid- ers, unions, immigrants, environmental annual general meeting, which was held in ed daily-updated news on our website protections and public health care are Hamilton, Ontario, in October. The meet- at www.canadians.org and on social fundamentally changing Canada as we ing allowed us to forge stronger solidarity media, and delivered informative articles know it. Massive omnibus budgets have with workers, Indigenous peoples and in Canadian Perspectives. gutted important environmental legisla- community activists. tion and much-needed programs. Our These remarkable achievements are made public health care system is being sys- Thank you to our donors possible by your financial contributions. tematically dismantled. Non-profit groups Our work is made possible by the gener- More than $4.1 million was received from that speak out are being targeted with osity of like-minded people who believe donations this fiscal year, which represents funding cuts or crippling government-en- social, economic and environmental jus- 93 per cent of total revenue. Please see forced financial audits. tice is something we must all strive for. the Summary Statement of Revenue and With your support, we made a real dif- Expenditure that shows our sources of Under the banner of “Common Causes,” ference in 2014. We garnered hundreds revenue and how we spent this funding. we continued to build broad support of media hits, organized major events in amongst civil society organizations to communities across Canada and around Your donations make a difference work together to find ways to collaborate, the world, held conferences and speak- We extend a most heartfelt thank you to and challenge and oppose the Harper ing tours, produced educational fact- all of our donors for supporting our work!

The Council of Canadians: Statement of Revenue and Expenditure for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2014

June 30, June 30, Revenue 2014 2013 Memberships and 93% $4,136,222 $4,762,871 contributions - 93% Program funding 4% 189,029 299,151 contributions - 6% Interest and other - 1% 3% 126,935 73,885 Total Revenue 100% 4,452,186 5,135,907 Expenditures Expenditures Regional Office and 14% 640,060 639,287 Expenditures Revenue sources Chapter funding 2013-2014 2013-2014 Communications 9% 403,906 427,643 Campaigns 24% 1,070,008 1,566,053 Campaigns 24% Memberships and contributions – 93% Fundraising 9% 410,252 739,370 Admin and program Program funding Member services 17% 747,264 770,108 support 23% contributions – 4% Meetings, conferences, 4% 198,020 196,994 Member services 17% newsletters Interest and Regional Office and other – 3% Admin and program 23% 1,056,032 1,081,666 Chapter funding 14% support Total Expenditure 100% 4,525,542 5,421,121 Fundraising 9% Bequest 54,763 195,666 Meetings, conferences, newsletters 4% Net surplus / ($18,593) ($89,548) Deficit for the year Communications 9% Transferred to 00 Maude Barlow’s SJF Excess of revenue over ($18,593) ($89,548) expenditure for the year

www.canadians.org Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 15 Forging

The Council of Canadians annual general meeting was held in Hamilton, Ontario last October. (Clockwise from top) 1. Pam Beattie (second from left) accepts the “Activist of the Year” award on behalf of Canadian Union of Public Employee’s (CUPE) members. Beattie is joined by Leo Cheverie, Mary Robinson and Maude Barlow. 2. The Council of Canadians plants a maple tree in Hamilton to commemorate the AGM. 3. Keynote speakers John Hilary, John Cartwright, Ben Powless, Maude Barlow, Chief Ava Hill and CUPE President Paul Moist. 4. Council of Canadians chapter activists and supporters at- tend a rally for good jobs and public services. 5. Council Board member Moira Peters (right) presents chapter activist Norah Chaloner with the Maude Barlow Founder’s Award. Photos: Jan Malek Bacground: Freepik Photos: Jan Malek Bacground:

1616 CanadianCanadiaan PerPerspectivesspectives SpSpringring 22015015 TheThe CouncilCoouncil off CanadiansCannaddiians The Council of Canadians Leaves a System Change Legacy

The Council of Canadians supports In order to highlight the Council’s com- “System Change, Not Climate Change” mitment to “System Change, Not Cli- and community initiatives that demon- mate Change,” we launched a program strate real alternatives to the fossil fuel in 2012 to support local initiatives in economy. Combined with fundamental communities hosting our annual con- policy shifts at the regional, national ference that demonstrate in practice and global levels, these local commu- what a better world will look like. Jan Malek nity initiatives are the real solutions to the climate crisis our planet faces. In October 2014 we visited Hamilton, Hamilton Chapter Chair Kathie Clark present- Ontario, for our annual meeting, where ed Abram Bergen the legacy award for THAAT In contrast to carbon offset and trading we announced that the 2014 recipient of Co-op at the Council’s annual meeting. schemes that commodify the environ- the annual System Change Legacy Award ment, our goal is to recognize and sup- was The Hammer Active Alternative port real change in the way we live and Transportation Co-operative (THAAT Co- THAAT Co-op is an example of the ex- work. The unregulated free market has op). Established in 2011, THAAT became citing community initiatives multiply- led to the dangerous tipping point we a workers’ co-operative in 2013 with sev- ing across the country and around the face – market mechanisms will not re- en founding members to provide sustain- world that offer real change and hope solve the climate crisis. able, emission-free delivery services. for the future.

Help Celebrate 30 Years of Building a Better Canada October 23-25

This year, our Annual General Meeting Conference hotel reservations – 14. This allows time for the nominating moves to Windsor, Ontario, and we are book by September 21 committee to make recommendations planning an exciting event to celebrate To obtain the negotiated group rate of to ensure a diverse Board. Nominations our 30th anniversary. Join us October $129 per night + taxes (includes free will be accepted at the AGM until 2:00 23-25 for an action-packed weekend, buffet breakfast) you must book by Sep- p.m. ET on Saturday, October 24. including a public forum on Friday tember 21, 2015. Call toll-free 1-877- night, a full day of workshops and pan- 973-7829 and identify “The Council of In addition to the regular slate of can- els and a gala dinner on Saturday, the Canadians” group block. didates, two regional chapter repre- Council’s business meeting on Sunday, sentatives to the Board from the Prai- and more events to be confirmed. Advance registration: ries-NWT and Atlantic regions will be August 5 – October 15 nominated and elected in a process We look forward to celebrating this spe- Registration information will be posted exclusive to chapters. These board cial occasion with our supporters, chap- on our website at www.canadians.org members will be confirmed by the ter activists and allies. starting August 5. Advance registration membership at the annual business closes at 5:00 p.m. ET October 15. meeting (ABM). The Council of Canadians’ Annual Conference and Business Meeting Resolutions: September 9 Ensure you are a supporter October 23-25 Proposed resolutions must be received in good standing St. Clair Centre for the Arts by September 9. After this date, only Being a Council of Canadians supporter 201 Riverside Drive West emergency resolutions on issues that in good standing allows you to vote on Windsor, ON N9A 5K4 could not have been foreseen by the policy resolutions at the ABM. To be a deadline date will be considered. supporter in good standing you need to Conference Hotel have donated $10 or more at least 30 Waterfront Hotel – Downtown Windsor Nominations: September 14 days before the ABM (by September 25, 277 Riverside Drive West Advance nominations for the Board of 2015), and no more than 12 months be- Windsor, ON N9A 5K4 Directors must be received by September fore October 25, 2015. www.canadians.org Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 17 Chapter Activist Profile Lois Little, Yellowknife, NWT Jan Malek

Lois Little is a member of the Northwest We recently intervened in Husky Oil’s plan and incredibly helpful. The engagement Territories Chapter, which is located in to explore for silica/fracking sand and were of territorial Indigenous, labour and envi- Yellowknife. The chapter was estab- successful in having this application referred ronmental leaders with our chapter is also lished only a couple of years ago, but to an environmental assessment. It’s the first very inspiring. has been very active in many campaigns. fracking-related assessment in the NWT. We are part of the Fracking Action North What advice would you give to When did you join the Council? Coalition that has a petition out at the people interested in starting a I have been a supporter of the Council of moment pushing for a comprehensive pub- new chapter? Canadians for well over 20 years, perhaps lic review of horizontal hydraulic fracturing. Do it! You won’t regret it! We found that even 25 years. I don’t remember when I We will also be critiquing the NWT govern- after a year or so of being Raging Boomers joined, but I do know that Maude Barlow ment’s imminent fracking regulations. we were raging in the wilderness with has always been on my radar and I recall no one hearing our voices. Being part fondly Mel Hurtig and the activism in the We are working with Ecology North to of a national network with the Council 80s that led to the establishment of the screen Maude’s Water on the Table film of Canadians is so helpful and support- Council of Canadians. as part of Canada’s Water Week events. ive. After we formed the NWT chapter We are monitoring transboundary water we found that all of a sudden people How and when did the agreements between the NWT and Alberta started hearing our voices because they Northwest Territories (NWT) and British Columbia and plan to have a recognized the Council as a powerful and chapter get started? public forum in the spring to talk about influential organization. We found that The NWT Chapter of the Council of how these agreements will be enforced. government was coming to us seeking our Canadians had five founding members opinion, and labour and other organiza- and was formally established in early We are also planning a Giant Mine Healing tions were happy to join with us in staging March of 2013. The chapter held its first Walk as a way of keeping the spotlight on events because we do have influence. We formal organizational meeting on April 4 the 237,000 tonnes of arsenic trioxide also found that media were coming to us of that year in Yellowknife. The NWT chap- that is stored underground and poses a seeking our opinion. ter grew out of an ad hoc group called the threat forever to our water and life. Raging Boomers, who were railing against For more information about how to join the assault of the Harper Conservatives on What challenges does the a chapter in your area, visit our website Canadian values, rights, democratic insti- chapter face? at www.canadians.org/chapters or call us tutions and the environment. It is difficult to expand our core group of toll-free at 1-800-387-7177. warriors as so many people are afraid to What are the most important speak out or show dissent for fear of puni- local issues the chapter is tive consequences. This will undoubtedly working on? get worse. As such, the risk of burn-out is Yellowknife, The NWT chapter is involved in a host of always there. NWT territorial issues, but water and democratic rights and freedoms are likely at the heart of What has been your favourite them all. Along with our labour allies we just moment with the Council? staged a very successful evening with James The Council of Canadians is an inspiring Gordon who performed “Stephen Harper and tremendously supportive organiza- the Musical: How to Survive and Thrive in tion. We had visits from Maude Barlow the Dying Days of the Empire of Oil.” and Brigette DePape, which were fun

18 Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 The Council of Canadians Chapter Action Updates

Chapter activists Tara Seucharan, Amit Praharaj and Lynne Alton took part in the Act on Climate march in Quebec City in April to call on pre- miers to take action to address climate change. Chapter members from Montreal, Fredericton, Moncton, York University, Toronto, Ottawa, Northumberland and Mid-Island (Nanaimo) par- ticipated. The march drew close to 25,000 people.

Council of Canadians chapters have And the Thunder Bay chapter spoke municipal resolution passed that had their been active in communities across against the pipeline at Ontario Energy city council call on the Harper government Canada protecting public health care, Board hearings and issued a municipal to hold an inquiry. And the North Shore working to stop the Energy East pipe- election report card outlining where the chapter highlighted the links between vio- line and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) various candidates stood on the project. lence against Indigenous women in Canada terminals, standing up for democra- and the oppression experienced by women cy, and calling for a national inquiry LNG pipedreams in Guatemala often related to Canadian on murdered and missing Indigenous Chapters in British Columbia have also mining companies. women. Here are a few highlights. been very active countering the provincial government’s agenda to promote LNG Interested in getting involved? Join a Protesting health cuts terminals and pipelines in their province. chapter near you! Find a full list of The London and Windsor-Essex chapters These projects would be highly water-con- Council of Canadians chapters at www. have been working to stop the pro- sumptive and emit huge amounts of car- canadians.org.chapters, or call us toll-free posed closure of the obstetrics unit at the bon dioxide. Public forums were orga- at 1-800-387-7177 for more information. Leamington District Memorial Hospital. If nized by chapters in Ladner, Powell the provincial government closes this ser- River, Courtenay, Victoria, Nanaimo and vice, pregnant women would need to trav- Campbell River. In memoriam el 50 kilometres to deliver their babies at The Council of Canadians is sad- a hospital in Windsor. The Windsor-Essex A musical twist on Harper dened by the passing of Comox chapter participated in a strategy meeting Chapters have also been highlighting the Valley chapter activist Gwyn Frayne. to stop this, while the London chapter Harper government’s record as we move Gwyn’s activism with the Council of recently took part in a protest outside closer to the next federal election, expect- Canadians was noted in numerous the constituency office of Ontario Deputy ed on October 19. The Prince Albert, Red campaign blogs. Notably, she spoke Premier Health Minister Deb Matthews. Deer and Northwest Territories chapters all out against fracking, the Raven coal hosted performances of the play “Stephen mine, high tuition fees for universi- Pipeline “Our Risk – Their Reward” Harper: The Musical” in their communi- ty students, the Northern Gateway Numerous chapters have been organiz- ties. The one-person play is reminding pipeline, the purchase of F-35 fight- ing against the Energy East pipeline. The audiences in a very entertaining way about er jets, deep integration with the Calgary chapter joined with allies outside the many negative actions taken by the United States, and on many other the National Energy Board (NEB) office to Harper government since it first came to issues. She was also a keen sup- demand that it consider climate change power in 2006. porter of the Peaceful Direct Action when making its recommendation to the Coalition. Gwyn was a caring person federal government about the pipeline. We need an inquiry who showed us all how to be an The Winnipeg chapter spoke at a press Numerous chapters have been calling on the exemplary activist and who also gave conference to say the NEB process would Harper government to hold an inquiry into us an enduring lesson in how to face be “illegitimate” if it didn’t include cli- missing and murdered Indigenous women. our own mortality with courage. She mate change in its review. The Saint John The Peterborough-Kawarthas chapter part- will be deeply missed. chapter helped local residents fill out the nered with Indigenous allies to write a joint application form to speak at the NEB letter to the editor in their local newspaper, The Council of Canadians extends sympa- hearings on the pipeline. The Montreal while the Hamilton, Moose Jaw, Brant and thies and condolences to Gwyn’s family, chapter joined with thousands of students St. John’s chapters also submitted letters to friends and fellow chapter activists. to march against the Energy East pipeline. the editor. The Regina chapter helped get a www.canadians.org Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 19 Not a Done Deal: European countries oppose CETA by Brent Patterson

The Council of Canadians has been from the deal over a dispute with the call for various options, including an fighting to stop the Canada–European Harper government concerning a $400 investment court to replace the role Union Comprehensive Economic and million fisheries fund related to the loss of private arbitration tribunals rather Trade Agreement (CETA) since a Canada- of minimum processing requirements than the complete removal of the pro- EU joint study making the case for under the deal. vision, the Canadian government re- negotiations was released in October fuses to negotiate this matter. 2008. Almost seven years later, where does the deal stand and what is the In Canada, more than 50 com- The newly elected Syriza government likelihood we can defeat it? munities, including Toronto, of Greece has also promised to veto Victoria, Sackville and Hamil- the United States–European Union The nine formal rounds of negotiations Transatlantic Trade and Investment for the deal were completed in October ton, have called for a municipal Partnership (TTIP), which is similar in 2011, followed by several meetings to exclusion from the agreement. nature to CETA. As an opposition party address various outstanding issues, the they also clearly expressed their rejec- announcement of a deal in principle tion of CETA. Council of Canadians Na- in October 2013, and the release of the Federally, the Conservatives continue tional Chairperson Maude Barlow has text at a Canada-EU summit in Ottawa to push for CETA, the Liberals support written the Greek government asking in September 2014. Almost six months the deal, the NDP is engaging in a con- them to veto CETA. later, the deal is still undergoing a “le- sultation process to determine its posi- gal scrub” and translation into the 24 tion, and the Greens oppose it. The New And in the European Parliament, the official and working languages of the Democrats have expressed their con- top issues of concern appear to be the European Union. It is expected that the cern about the investor-state dispute investor-state provision, concern that 28 national legislatures of the European settlement (ISDS) provision in CETA, the deal could open Europe to geneti- Union could begin voting on it by Janu- and have told European leaders that cally modified foods, the weakening of ary 2016 and that the European Parlia- they should not ratify a deal that in- European standards through regulatory ment could vote on its ratification about cludes it. In Canada, however, the New convergence, and, given opposition to a year from now, around April 2016. Democrats continue to insist that it’s TTIP, the degree to which U.S. corpora- only one aspect of an overall deal. Still, tions with offices in Canada could use In Canada, more than 50 communi- given the deal is not likely to be ratified CETA as a proxy TTIP. If the various par- ties, including Toronto, Victoria, Sack- in Europe before the October 19 federal ties that oppose the ISDS provision hold ville and Hamilton, have called for a election, the ratification here will fall to firm, it is plausible that CETA could be municipal exclusion from the agree- the next government. rejected in a ratification vote in the ment. There is an opportunity now to 751-member assembly. go back to those cities to ask them to In Europe, there is significantly more take further action against CETA. Un- official opposition to the deal. Both As we enter what will likely be the last fortunately, cities are considered to be the German and the French govern- year of our fight against CETA, there is “creatures of the provinces” and all ments – the largest and second larg- reason to be hopeful that together we’ll be of the provinces and territories – ex- est economies respectively in Europe able to stop this “free trade” agreement. cept for Newfoundland and Labrador – have stated that CETA should be re- at this point – have agreed to the deal. opened and the ISDS provision should Brent Patterson is the Political Director of the Council Newfoundland and Labrador withdrew be amended. While these governments of Canadians.

20 Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 The Council of Canadians Photo of ranch land in northern Nebraska. TransCanada Keystone XL tar sands pipepline is supposed to pass through this piece of property. Canadians, Stay Strong Against TransCanada’s Energy East Pipeline by Ben Gotschall

I am first and foremost a rancher. I am TransCanada’s proposed Keystone XL across the state who felt the same way. now also an anti-pipeline activist. pipeline map for Nebraska. Since then, along with other landown- ers and citizens in Nebraska and other I was 10-years-old when I started my The pipeline was proposed to pass states, we have fought the pipeline. own herd of cattle on my family’s right through the Sandhills, a unique ranch in Nebraska. I learned early, and fragile ecosystem that overlies the And now, I know we have friends in from our 75-year history of ranching, Ogallala, a critically important aquifer, Canada waging a very similar fight about the value of hard work. I learned at a vulnerable shallow recharge zone. against the same company. the value of our land and water which None of my neighbours were activists. sustains our herd and our family. We felt alone in our opposition to the I’ve just finished a week of visiting com- pipeline. TransCanada told us separate- munities in New Brunswick along the You may wonder, how does a rancher ly we were the only ones not signing Energy East pipeline. The conversations become an activist? easements and taking the money they I’ve had with landowners, First Nation offered. But that was not so. members and concerned residents very I was at a State Department hearing much remind me of the conversations in 2010 when I first saw the names of When I started speaking out, I found my we had when we were first reckoning my friends, family and neighbours on voice. I found there were Nebraskans all with the risks posed by Keystone XL. www.canadians.org Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 21 Grace Young Photography for Bold Nebraska Grace Young

Ben Gotschall speaks out against the Keystone XL pipeline on behalf of Bold Nebraska. He says ordinary people can stand up to Big Oil companies.

We have heard pipeline proponents Energy East, just like Keystone XL, is We have a case before the Nebraska peddle the same myths. an export pipeline. We are all being Supreme Court pitting three Nebraska asked to bear the risks of a pipeline landowners fighting to protect their Like the promises of jobs. These jobs spill so that foreign corporations land from eminent domain and the will be mostly short-term. In fact, they can profit. pipeline, against an irresponsible Ne- are over-advertised to lure people to braskan law attempting to fast-track the support the project. They pre-empt the At 1.1 million barrels per day, Ener- pipeline route approval process. The real discussion about how to build a gy East would carry around 300,000 law has already been ruled unconsti- long-term sustainable energy future that more barrels than Keystone XL would tutional by a lower district court. Tran- keeps young people in smaller commu- have, making a massive pipeline rup- sCanada currently has no legal route nities and helps the economy grow. ture very possible. through Nebraska.

We have also been told that Keystone We’ve joined farmers, ranchers and XL would reduce dangerous oil-by- Industry is after as much ca- tribal communities from along the rail traffic. pipeline route to form the Cowboy pacity – pipeline or rail – as Indian Alliance. This past September Pipeline and oil-by-rail industries are they can get to feed the booms we rode our horses into Washington, largely self-regulated and neither is happening in the tar sands D.C., and set up camp near the White held to high enough safety standards. House to tell President Obama to re- Nor are they showing responsibility to and U.S. fracked oil. Approval ject the pipeline. communities by being forthright about of either pipeline will add to the chemicals that are passing through the risks of communities fac- Which he did. waterways either by rail or by pipe. ing oil- by-rail traffic. I am proud to stand beside Canadian Industry is after as much capacity – friends in this most important fight. pipeline or rail – as they can get to We, the people of North America feed the booms happening in the tar I met with organic farmers in New and the world, must work together sands and U.S. fracked oil. Approval of Brunswick who have been approached against money and power to protect either pipeline will add to the risks of multiple times by TransCanada to have our homes, our communities and communities facing oil- by-rail traffic. their land surveyed for the pipeline our planet. and who are worried about their land And there are viable alternatives. In and water sources. Landowners are Ben Gotschall is a dairy cattle rancher and Energy fact, Nebraskans built a New Energy feeling powerless and isolated, just Director with Bold Nebraska. In April he joined Barn featuring solar panels in the Key- like we did, at first. the Council of Canadians on a tour of some of stone XL path that generates clean en- the communities in the Prairies that would be ergy for Nebraska’s public power grid. This can be overcome. impacted by the Energy East pipeline if it is built.

22 Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 The Council of Canadians Darren Kirby Darren

by Emma Lui Canada’s Lakes and Rivers Lose Legislative Protection

There are now only 100 lakes, 62 The final blow for the NWPA came in Quebec are unprotected, including Lac rivers and 3 oceans legally protect- 2012 in the Harper government’s sec- Mistassini, Réservoir Gouin and Lac à ed in Canada under the Navigation ond omnibus budget bill, Bill C-45. l’Eau Claire. While several of the large Protection Act (NPA). The NPA, which The 450-page bill stripped protections lakes in Ontario are protected, only came into force on April 1, 2014, from 99 per cent of the lakes and riv- one of the lakes in Saskatchewan and removed protections for the major- ers in Canada and significantly re- three lakes in larger than 400 ity of waterways. When it comes to duced the number of environmental square kilometres are protected. None pipeline and powerline projects, the assessments triggered by industrial de- of the lakes larger than 400 square ki- NPA affords no protection to any velopment on or near waterways. The lometres are protected in Alberta. Gla- lake, river or waterway. bill also amended the act’s name to the cial-fed Atlin Lake, on the traditional Navigation Protection Act. lands of the Taku River Tlingits, is one The NPA replaced one of Canada’s old- of the largest lakes in British Columbia est pieces of legislation, the Navigable An Access to Information request by and the source of the Yukon River. It is Waters Protection Act (NWPA), which Greenpeace revealed that the 2012 not protected. Of the Yukon and North- was originally put in place to safeguard budget bill changes to the NWPA, west Territories’ largest lakes, only the navigation of waterways. In 2009, the Environmental Assessment Act, Great Bear Lake is listed under the act’s the Harper government began its initial and other environmental legislation schedule for protection. clawback of the NWPA. In a 2009 report were guided by the advice of indus- on Bill C-10, the budget bill where ear- try associations. The Harper government’s 2012 budget ly amendments to the NWPA appeared, bills fanned the flames of discontent the Standing Senate Committee on En- The scant list of lakes, rivers and amongst Indigenous communities. The ergy, the Environment and Natural Re- oceans that are still protected, outlined federal government not only washed sources declared, “The Act protects the in the act’s schedule, does not include its hands of protecting lakes and riv- public right of navigation by regulating some of the largest lakes in the prov- ers, it also ignored the constitutional works over waterways such as bridges, inces and territories. Smallwood Res- duty to consult with First Nations. That dams and docks in order to minimize ervoir, unprotected under the NPA, is fall, four Saskatchewan women started the overall impact on navigation.” Yet the largest lake in Newfoundland and Idle No More, a movement that grew Bill C-10 created a tiered classification Labrador and feeds the Churchill Riv- over the winter of 2013 and sparked system that allowed certain projects to er, which in turn is the longest river in a massive wave of rallies and actions be exempted from federal scrutiny. the province. Some of largest lakes in across the country.

www.canadians.org Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 23 On World Water Day, members of the Council of Canadians’ Campbell River chapter called on their local MP to “#Pledge2Protect” the Campbell River Estuary.

Legal challenges East, North America’s largest proposed bec will remain protected with these Council of Canadians Political Director pipeline, is exempted from scrutiny un- changes. Canada’s waterways across Brent Patterson noted in a blog, “In Jan- der the NPA even though it threatens the country are an integral part of our uary 2015, the Mikisew First Nation hundreds of unprotected lakes and riv- natural environment and part of our won its legal challenge against Harper’s ers. The New Post Creek hydroelectric world renowned heritage. Protecting C-38 and C-45, which removed federal dam project in Ontario will be built on them must not be a partisan exercise.” protection for most of the waterways in the unprotected Abitibi River and will the traditional territory of the Mikisew not undergo any environmental review. Since then, the NDP has launched a Cree in northern Alberta. Federal Court Any liquefied natural gas plant built in campaign to reinstate protections to all Justice Roger Hughes ruled that the British Columbia on an unprotected riv- the lakes and rivers in Canada, start- Harper government should have con- er would not require federal approval ing with the Canadian Heritage Rivers. sulted with First Nations before intro- under the act, even if it interferes with Since April 2013, NDP MPs have intro- ducing the omnibus bills C-38 and C-45 navigation on the waterway. duced several private member’s bills to two years ago.” restore waterway protections. The NPA has an “opt-in” process by Canadian musicians like Sarah Harmer, which companies can volunteer to have With the federal election coming, 2015 the Tragically Hip’s Gord Downie, and their project reviewed even if it is not will prove to be a significant year. Many Feist also spoke out against the changes required. Transport Canada also pro- hope it will lead to a new course for to the Navigable Waters Protection Act. vides an “opt-out” option by which a water and that environmental legisla- Downie warned that Bill C-45 was “an company can request to withdraw their tion gutted by the Harper government attack on our democracy.” Mountain application if they submitted it prior to will be reinstated. Our lakes and rivers Equipment Co-op CEO David Labistour the legislative changes, which absolves should not be sacrificed for the sake of presented a list of 40 recreationally the company of the requirement to ob- pipelines and oil and gas development. important waterways – half of which tain federal approval under the act. are Heritage Rivers – that are no lon- Act for water! ger protected. Labistour reminded the While the NPA may look like a blanket To mark World Water Day in March, Senate committee studying the bill that delisting of the majority of lakes and the Council of Canadians launched the outdoor recreation industry creates rivers across Canada, it is important to the #Pledge2Protect our lakes and riv- at least 6 million jobs in Canada. This note that 89 per cent of the waterways ers campaign. We are urging people to is a significant number when it is com- still protected are in Conservative-held take a photo at a lake or river in their pared to the 226,020 jobs – as projected ridings. Only 20 per cent of the pro- community that is no longer protect- in 2013 – in oil and gas extraction and tected lakes are in ridings held by New ed and encourage their MP and elec- support activities for mining and oil Democrats and only 6 per cent are in tion candidates to pledge to protect it. and gas extraction. Liberal ridings. Together, we can show the importance of our waterways and get protections Two and a half years after the legislative Shortly after Bill C-45 was introduced, put back on 99 per cent of the lakes changes, many lakes and rivers remain Francis Scarpaleggia, Liberal critic for and rivers in Canada. unprotected, and resource and develop- water policy and public safety, wrote, ment projects continue to be exempted “As a Quebec MP, I am particularly Emma Lui is the Water Campaigner for the Council from environmental reviews. Energy concerned that only four lakes in Que- of Canadians.

24 Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 The Council of Canadians In Memoriam: Norma Joan Fleury 1933-2013 by Hélène Bertrand

In January, we received a notice that on herself, but would do anything for a helping to strengthen both the effective- one of our long-time supporters in friend. She was an avid quilter. And she ness of our current work and our ability Powell River, British Columbia, had would never go out unless she looked to plan for the future. And I believe passed away and that the Council perfect. I also learned that Norma Joan Norma Joan knew all about planning for of Canadians was named as a ben- had worked all her life at the Powell River the future. eficiary of her estate, along with a pulp and paper mill. She had started on handful of charities. the floor and, in time, worked her way Norma Joan’s legacy will live on. It will up to the position of Office Manager. live on in every campaign, in every Norma Joan first joined the Council in action, and through every one of us at 1997. We knew very little about her This last bit of information really stayed the Council of Canadians as we work apart from her philanthropic history with with me. Norma Joan would have been together for social justice. us. She clearly had a long-standing com- in the pulp and paper mill between the mitment to social justice, as was shown 1950s and the 1980s. Even though the A gift in your will by her ongoing support, but the only per- Powell River paper mill was the larg- You can help build a better Canada by sonal contact we’d had with Norma Joan est pulp and paper mill in the world planning a legacy gift. A legacy gift is one was a note she wrote to us a few years at the time, as a woman – even as an that you plan today to benefit the Council back deploring the fact that not enough office manager, which in itself is no small of Canadians tomorrow. It is a simple, yet people were aware of the Council of feat for that era – this would not have powerful, way to carry forward your sup- Canadians’ work and what we were been the most lucrative of occupations. port for the Council’s work while making fighting for. And yet, her legacy to the Council of a lasting statement about what truly Canadians was substantial. matters to you. So I went looking for anyone who could tell me more about Norma Joan – who I guess Rosemary was right. Norma Joan Leaving a gift in your will – as Norma she was, and what kind of person she did not spend on herself, but would do Joan did – can be as simple as adding was, to have given so generously and anything for a friend. And we can only one line to a new or existing will. In so silently. be immensely grateful that she included leaving a legacy gift with the Council of the Council among her friends. Canadians, you empower future gen- After a few phone calls, it was Rosemary, erations with the means and hope to a friend from her teen years, who told It’s hard to say if she knew how much bring about the better Canada we know me more. Norma Joan was indeed a very this gift would mean to all of the people is possible. private person, even with her friends. She across Canada working together to build had no family, only distant relatives, and a better Canada, but I like to think that For more information please visit our web- had never married. She was a very orga- she did. Legacy gifts to the Council of site at www.canadians.org/legacy or call nized person. She did not spend money Canadians make all the difference in us toll-free at 1-800-387-7177, ext. 244.

www.canadians.org Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 25 Dr. Profit Puts Public Health Care on Trial

by Michael Butler

Council of Canadians supporters and chapter activists across Canada took part in a national day of action for public health care at the end of March. The day of action drew attention to creeping health care privatization and to the Harper government’s decision to let the health care accord expire.

This fall, possibly the most significant and the B.C. health care system. The same more costly) cases to the public system. constitutional challenge in Canadian his- audit also produced evidence of overlap- Private clinics also poach physicians from tory will put our medicare on trial. The ping claims – where a patient and B.C.’s the public system since they can earn more very founding principle of public health Medical Services Plan were billed for the in a publicly subsidized private system. care and one of Canada’s deepest held same procedure – totalling an additional Studies continue to show that in addition values – that health care must be deliv- $66,000. This practice is known as “dou- to higher costs, patients treated in for-profit ered based on a person’s need and not ble-dipping.” This shows what the case settings have poorer health outcomes and the ability to pay – is at stake. is really about: greed, not better care. higher mortality rates than those treat- ed in a public non-profit setting. The B.C. government is facing an un- If Dr. Day wins, doctors and private insur- precedented lawsuit (Cambie Surgeries ance companies across Canada could start What Dr. Day is proposing is a no-win Corporation et al. v. Medical Services setting their own prices and charging pa- situation for ordinary Canadians. Commission et al.) launched by a group tients for services. Cambie Surgery Clinic, of for-profit medical clinic owners. Led which is being subsidized by Canadian Now, more than ever, we must demand our by Dr. Brian Day, who has been dubbed tax dollars and resources, charges up to governments and leaders protect, strength- “Dr. Profit” in the media, the case will use six times more than the public system for en and expand our public health care. The the courts to smuggle an American-style procedures. This would allow rich people Canada Health Act requires that all Cana- two-tier health care system into Canada. who can afford to pay for health care ser- dians have access to equitable, timely, Even though this case is going to court in vices jump ahead in the queue while the high quality care. We have the right to de- B.C. it is a national issue that affects the rest of us wait. It would also mean that all mand that a precedent be set to warn other health care of all Canadians. A decision in citizens would subsidize the cost of care health professionals that illegally profiting favour of the private clinic owners would that only a wealthy few will be able to af- off of people who are sick and vulnerable impact every provincial and territorial ford. Ultimately, this case could determine will not be tolerated, and that those who health care insurance plan. whether we will lose medicare, the public attempt this will be prosecuted. We have health care our families rely on. the right to demand that Dr. Day and those For years Dr. Day has been openly ignor- like him who only see dollar signs in health ing health care laws at the public’s ex- Private care means longer waits care stop jeopardizing our most fundamen- pense. A 30-day audit conducted by the Private clinics have been shown to increase tal Canadian value: universal medicare. B.C. government in 2012 of Dr. Day’s Cam- wait times in the public system by “cher- bie Surgery Centre revealed the clinic un- ry-picking” patients who need straightfor- Michael Butler is the Health Care Campaigner for the lawfully billed nearly $500,000 to patients ward treatments, leaving the complex (and Council of Canadians.

26 Canadian Perspectives Spring 2015 The Council of Canadians Chapter Contacts The Council of Canadians appreciates the energy and dedication of our chapter activists. If you are interested in joining a chapter please see the contacts list below, or get in touch with the regional office closest to you. For more information on the Council’s chapters, visit www.canadians.org or call us at 1-800-387-7177.

Atlantic Organizing Organizing Assistant Toronto, ON Northwest Fraser Valley, BC Office Ailish Morgan-Welden Tracy Frohlick Territories Karen Wootten 211-2099 Gottingen St. [email protected] 416-975-3895 604-202-1231 Halifax NS B3K 3B2 [email protected] Northwest Territories [email protected] Ontario torontococ.weebly.com 902-422-7811 1-877-772-7811 Peter Redvers Kamloops, BC 1-877-729-4500 Regional Organizer Brant, ON Windsor-Essex, ON Anita Strong Carol Ritchie Doug Hayes [email protected] 250-375-2241 Angela Giles cocnwt.ca [email protected] 519-442-0014 519-735-8319 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.kamloopscanadians.ca Organizing Assistant Saskatchewan Brockville, ON York University, ON Kelowna, BC Tori Ball Moose Jaw NEW! Jim Riesberry Amit Praharaj Karen Abramsen [email protected] Haley Gordon 613-345-3738 647-448-7732 250-769-1977 306-313-2334 [email protected] councilofcanadiansyork@ [email protected] New Brunswick [email protected] www.brockvillecouncilofcanadians.ca gmail.com Mid-Island/Nanaimo, BC Fredericton, NB Prince Albert, SK Guelph, ON June Ross Caroline Lubbe-D’Arcy Quebec Rick Sawa Norah Chaloner 250-729-0185 506-454-5119 306-922-3851 519-823-9601 Montreal, QC [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Abdul Pirani www.midislandcanadians.org Moncton, NB www.coc-guelph.ca 450-371-2529 pacouncilofcanadians.ca Nelson/West Kootenays, BC Pamela Ross [email protected] Quill Plains, SK Hamilton, ON Sandra Nelken 506-471-1700 Elaine Hughes Ed Reece Prairies-NWT 250-352-5274 [email protected] 306-323-4901 905-389-7887 Organizing Office [email protected] Saint John, NB [email protected] [email protected] 10512–122nd Street, 3rd floor New Westminster, BC Leticia Adair www.cochamilton.ca Regina, SK Edmonton AB T5N 1M6 Andrew Murray 506-633-0398 Jim Elliott London, ON 780-429-4500 1-877-729-4500 604-521-3443 [email protected] 306-352-4804 Roberta Cory Regional Organizer [email protected] Newfoundland 519-601-2053 [email protected] Chris Gallaway Port Alberni, BC info@londoncouncilof Saskatoon, SK and Labrador [email protected] Colin M. Frazer canadians.ca David Greenfield 250-723-9621 St. John’s, NL www.londoncouncilof Organizing Assistant 306-222-8520 [email protected] Erika Steeves canadians.ca Aleah Loney [email protected] 709-699-6246 [email protected] Powell River, BC [email protected] Northumberland, ON British Columbia and Elma Parker Alberta Patricia Cocksedge Yukon Organizing Office 604-485-5409 Nova Scotia 905-372-9143 700-207 West Hastings St. [email protected] Calgary, AB [email protected] Halifax, NS Alana-Dawn Erikson Vancouver BC V6B 1H7 Surrey-Langley-White Rock, BC Jerry MacKinlay Ottawa, ON 587-433-0744 604-688-8846 1-888-566-3888 Karin Johnson 902-454-5566 Phil Soublière [email protected] Regional Organizer 604-710-1551 [email protected] 613-204-1459 www.calgarycouncil.wordpress.com Harjap Grewal [email protected] [email protected] Inverness County, NS Edmonton, AB [email protected] www.sites.google.com/site/ Terrace, BC NEW! Johanna Padelt Richard Merry ottawacanadians/ Organizing Assistant Bruce Bidgood 902-787-2753 780-430-0608 AJ Klein 250-635-6044 [email protected] Peel Region, ON [email protected] [email protected] Pauline Thornham [email protected] North Shore, NS Hinton, AB 416-418-6641 British Columbia Vancouver-Burnaby, BC Berta Gaulke Tim Shain [email protected] Penny Tilby 902-899-4220 780-865-1240 Campbell River, BC 604-263-1005 [email protected] Peterborough-Kawarthas, ON [email protected] Richard Hagensen [email protected] Roy Brady www.cochintonchapter.ca 250-286-3019 South Shore, NS www.vancouvercouncilof 705-745-2446 [email protected] Marion Moore [email protected] Lethbridge & District, AB canadians.ca 902-527-2928 Sheila Rogers Chilliwack, BC NEW! www.peterborough-kawarthas.org Victoria, BC [email protected] 403-381-1537 Wendy Major Barbara Mitchell Pollock South Niagara, ON [email protected] 604-824-7818 250-220-5355 Prince Fiona McMurran chwkcouncilofcanadians@ Red Deer, AB [email protected] Edward Island 905-788-0756 gmail.com [email protected] Derrick Callan www.victoriacouncilofcanadians.ca 403-506-0303 Comox Valley, BC Charlottetown, PEI Williams Lake, BC Sudbury, ON [email protected] Kathie Woodley Marian White Peter R. Smith André Clément canadiansreddeer.org 250-334-4608 902-676-2248 250-392-2605 705-522-4813 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Manitoba www.cvcanadians.org Ontario-Quebec-Nunavut councilofcanadianssudbury. www.williamslakecouncilof Winnipeg, MB canadians.ca Organizing Office blogspot.ca Cowichan Valley, BC Mary Robinson Donna Cameron 202-609 Bloor Street West Thunder Bay, ON 204-803-5416 250-748-2444 Yukon Toronto ON M6G 1K5 Shannon Dodd-Smith [email protected] [email protected] Whitehorse, YK 416-979-5554 1-800-208-7156 807-344-4253 www.canadianswinnipeg.org Delta-Richmond, BC Emily Sheff Regional Organizer [email protected] Cathy Wilander 867-335-6862 Mark Calzavara www.tbaycoc.wordpress.com 604-946-0877 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Want to AMPLIFY our movement for social justice?

twitter.com/CouncilOfCDNs Join the Council of Canadians’ You can also find the Council’s Blue social media efforts to defend Planet Project on social media at face- facebook.com/CouncilofCDNS clean water, fair trade, green energy, book.com/BluePlanetProject and on public health care, and a vibrant democ- Twitter at @BluePlanetProj. To connect youtube.com/councilofcanadians racy. Effective social media campaigning with your local Council of Canadians flickr.com/councilofcanadians can mean the difference between chal- chapter on social media, visit canadians. lenging an injustice and ending it. Follow, org/community and click on the chapter pinterest.com/councilofcdns like, pin, post, and share! contacts page. Vine.com: @CouncilOfCDNs

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