ETS Protest Heads To Parliament

Protesters will converge on the steps of Parliament today to voice their opposition on the Government's decision to push ahead with what Dr Nick Smith has said is the most comprehensive Emissions Trading Scheme in the world.  The protest has been jointly organised by Federated Farmers member Brian Anselmi and the Climate Realists Network. 

Guest speakers will address the protesters from 1pm and include National Director of Family First Bob McCoskrie, President of Federated Farmers Don Nicolson and ACT New Zealand Climate Change Spokesman John Boscawen.

"From July 1, less than two weeks away, all New Zealanders will face increases in the price of petrol and electricity," says ACT MP John Boscawen.  "These costs will flow throughout the whole economy, increasing the price of virtually everything. 

"New Zealand is setting up an elaborate system that will be extremely expensive to disestablish and despite the fact that not one of our major trading partners – Australia, China, USA or Japan – is implementing, or looks likely to implement an ETS in the near future.  Our Government has decided to push ahead regardless and our exporters will pay the price as they face costs that their competitors simply will not face.  

"Prior to the election National promised New Zealanders that we would not lead the world on climate change, yet just over 18 months later that is exactly what we are doing.  New Zealanders are not happy that National is not honouring its promise and they are heading to the steps of Parliament today to ensure their voices are heard," says Mr Boscawen.

Protest Against The Government’s Emissions Trading Scheme, Meeting at the Michael Fowler Centre 12pm to march to Parliament at 12.30pm, Tuesday, June 22 2010