Federal court lets youth climate lawsuit move forward against Carney government
A federal judge rejected the government's motion to dismiss a climate case filed by Canadian youth and environmental groups, allowing the lawsuit to proceed.
In a decisive procedural ruling, Justice Patrick Gleeson refused to dismiss a climate-change lawsuit brought by three Canadian youths and two environmental organisations. The case seeks a court order compelling the federal government to amend the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, which the Liberal administration under Prime Minister Mark Carney has been accused of diluting since its 2022 launch. The government had argued that the statute’s use of the word “may” allowed the minister to decide whether to adjust emissions targets, and therefore the suit should be thrown out.
Gleeson countered that “may” must be interpreted in light of the act’s purpose to hold the government accountable for climate policy, and thus the claim merits a hearing. The plaintiffs, represented by Ecojustice staff lawyer Fraser Thomson, called the ruling an early win and indicated they will pursue the case expeditiously. The decision paves the way for both sides to present arguments on whether Canada must strengthen its climate plan to meet its 2030 emissions target.
Why it matters
The ruling could force Canada to tighten its climate policy, affecting national emissions targets and future environmental regulation.
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