Climate change theme adopted as Montreal Millennium Summit returns in spring
2010

MONTREAL , Dec. 17 /CNW Telbec/ - The fourth edition of the Montreal Millennium Summit will run from April 20 to 22, 2010. In a timely convergence, the issue of poverty will be examined from the perspective of climate change and its impact on women, men and children who experience this phenomenon on a day-to-day basis. Katherine Adams , who is responsible for Summit programming and public relations, was in Copenhagen this week and pointed out: "... Climate change is no longer a threat, it has become a reality for millions of people. We have to make sure their voices are being heard. Economic and political interests aside, we must take care of each other because there is only one planet and it is together that we will ensure its sustainability and the survival of its inhabitants."

The Summit will add a national component to its program this year, by setting aside a half-day for those who are fighting poverty in Quebec and the rest of Canada . To this end, representatives of civil society and governments in each province and territory will gather to discuss their strategies for coping with poverty.

With the final push now underway toward achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), anticipated in 2015, the 2010 Summit is more relevant than ever today. Unfortunately, the current situation gives rise to a certain level of pessimism regarding achievement of these goals. The 2009 UN progress report on achievement of the MDGs reveals that some goals, which were nearing attainment in 2007, are now at a standstill and have even lost ground. Factors that have helped slow down progress toward full achievement of these goals include, among others, the effects of climate change on the most vulnerable populations, as well as the global economic crisis, which has resulted in a drop in humanitarian aid from developed countries.

The Montreal Millennium Summit, presented by Investors Group Financial Services, which was launched by Daniel Germain , founder of the Quebec Breakfast Club and Breakfast Clubs of Canada , is an international high-level event that brings together, on a yearly basis, key players in the field of social advocacy from the local area and around the world, representing governments, civil society, academia and the community, as well as the largest humanitarian organizations. The aim of this event is to make the fight against poverty everyone's business, by highlighting the efforts of organizations and individuals who are working for the collective well-being. Influential people have the power, and a duty, to "get the word out" and inspire others to commit to concrete, meaningful actions that will instigate profound change and make a real difference.

    
                           www.millenniumsummit.ca

    The following people will be available for interviews:
    Daniel Germain, Founding President, Montreal Millennium Summit
    Katherine Adams, Programming and Public Relations, Montreal Millennium
    Summit
    

For further information: Press relations: Elisabeth Roy; Isabelle Longtin, Roy & Turner communications, [phone], extension 207, [email protected]