Public Discussion and Q&A with Scott Vaughn, Canada’s Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development
WINNIPEG, 14 March 2011 – Do you ever wonder how effective federal environmental programs are? It is Scott Vaughan’s job to find out. Vaughan is the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development, in the Office of the Auditor General. This is the arms length agency responsible for monitoring environmental programs in Canada. He will be in Winnipeg on March 17 to discuss the findings of his most recent report to Parliament.
Vaughan’s December 2010 report focused on fresh water monitoring and climate change adaptation. The report notes the government’s failure to lead is evident in the absence of a federal strategy for adapting to climate impacts, despite commitments going back 18 years. His report also found that “Environment Canada is not adequately monitoring the quality and quantity of Canada’s surface water resources.”
Vaughan’s presentation in Winnipeg will focus on a case study of how well the federal government is monitoring Lake Winnipeg, as well as assessing how we are preparing for expected environmental changes that will result from global climate change.
“This is an opportunity to get a clear account about how well our government is serving the public on issues that are central to the future of the environment our children will inherit” said event organizer Josh Brandon.
The event is sponsored by Manitoba Eco-Network and is open to the public.
Date: March 17, 2011
Time: 12:30 – 2:00 pm
Location: St. Boniface Library
100-131 Provencher Boulevard
Winnipeg
Background:
A copy of the OAG December 2010 report can be found at: http://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/internet/English/parl_cesd_201012_02_e_34425.html
