QUESTION PERIOD — Environment and Climate Change
Energy Transition
September 23, 2025
Congratulations on your new Senate role, Senator Moreau.
This past Sunday, we made history hosting the Canadian Youth Climate Assembly here in the Senate. There were 33 young people from across Canada — chosen from over 700 who applied — and they came together to answer this question: What do young Canadians want Parliament to do to meet Canada’s climate commitments in a way that reflects their values and priorities? Many of their recommendations emphasized respecting Indigenous sovereignty and supporting Indigenous ownership when it comes to the clean energy transition.
Senator Moreau, next Tuesday, we will mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Could you tell us what the government is doing to ensure the inclusion of Indigenous leadership in the renewable energy transition, ensuring economic reconciliation?
Thank you for the question. The government is committed to the rights of Indigenous Peoples. It has been said here in this chamber that we are very aware of the importance of having close communication with Indigenous Peoples and the importance of taking into consideration whatever they have to say, whether it is related to the environment or economic development in this country. The government is committed to upholding those words.
We will probe that further another time.
The Canadian Youth Climate Assembly also emphasized the need for better collaboration amongst federal, provincial, municipal and Indigenous governments to be better prepared for devastating climate events like wildfires, flooding and droughts. Senator Moreau, how will the federal government take up this imperative for better collaborative emergency preparedness and response, particularly with reference to Indigenous governments?
The government is very aware that First Nations, Inuit and Métis are leading efforts to address climate change and adapt to its impacts. Indigenous knowledge systems are vital to a healthy environment and a sustainable future for all. The Government of Canada is committed to help foster a collaborative approach to engage with Indigenous People and support Indigenous climate leadership. That is why it introduced a Healthy Environment and Healthy Economy climate plan that advances Indigenous climate leadership and announced over $2 billion —
Thank you, Senator Moreau.
