NDP - New Democratic Party of Canada

03/15/2023 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/15/2023 11:21

New Democrats urge Liberals to declare a moratorium on International deep seabed mining

New Democrats urge Liberals to declare a moratorium on International deep seabed mining

OTTAWA - NDP Fisheries and Oceans Critic Lisa Marie Barron is calling on the Liberal government to support a moratorium on deep sea mining in international waters ahead of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) meeting on March 16th.

"Canadians rely upon our oceans for food and for our economy and livelihoods. We need to be doing everything possible to make sure our oceans and marine life are protected from pollution and harm, so our coastal communities can continue to thrive," said Barron. "Right now, we don't have enough information to determine whether any level of deep-sea mining can take place without causing serious harm to our oceans and marine life. Until we know more, the government should be supporting an international freeze."

In February, the Liberal government announced an effective moratorium on deep seabed mining in Canadian waters but fell short on calling for the same in international waters.

Justin Trudeau and the Liberals are refusing to follow the lead of other G20 counties and put a freeze on all international seabed mining projects. Other G20 countries like Germany and France have put in place an international moratorium to protect vital species from the potentially catastrophic impacts of deep seabed mining.

Last year, New Democrats called the Liberals to end deep seabed mining in international waters by introducing a motion to do just that.

"The climate emergency and harms to our oceans are global issues, and Canadians expect the Liberals to be making a global effort - not just saying nice things," said Barron. "That's why New Democrats have been calling for the Liberals to protect the oceans and the species within them by banning deep seabed mining. We need to be fighting for the future of our planet and the hard-earned livelihoods of those who depend on it."