NZ needs to back itself, and Kyoto

The Green Party is calling on the Government to back Adrian Macey’s nomination to chair the Kyoto Protocol negotiations by reaffirming New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to the UN climate change process.

“John Key’s Government can show true international leadership on climate change with unequivocal support for the continuation of the Kyoto process,” Green Party Co-leader Dr Russel Norman said.

New Zealand’s Climate Change Ambassador, Adrian Macey, has been nominated in Bonn to chair the Kyoto Protocol negotiations. Rumours are that some G77 countries are nervous about having Mr Macey as chair because of New Zealand’s perceived lack of commitment to tackling climate change.

“No one can doubt that it is in New Zealand’s best interests to hold the pen as the second commitment period is being negotiated,” Dr Norman said.

“What the rest of the world needs is reassurance that our Government isn’t wavering.

“Climate change is the greatest policy challenge that humanity has ever faced, and we have an opportunity to make a substantial contribution.

“Adrian Macey has made a significant contribution under multiple governments. I think he would make a fine chair.

“It is time we backed ourselves and our commitment to tackling this dilemma on the global stage,” Dr Norman said.