IBC congratulates the Government of Canada on its continued commitment to fighting climate change

TORONTO, Oct. 3, 2016 /CNW/ - Today, the Government of Canada announced its pan-Canadian approach to pricing carbon pollution. Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) congratulates the Government for continuing to make climate change a top priority.   

"IBC congratulates the Government on today's carbon pricing announcement. Severe weather is already costing Canadian taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars annually. This is an ambitious approach that takes the first steps in limiting future damage." said Don Forgeron, President and CEO, IBC. "We also support the government's plans to fund strong resilient infrastructure and implement adaptation strategies which address the real, immediate effects of climate change."

Climate change has brought more rain and snow, more storms, and more flooding to almost every part of the country. The frequency and severity of these natural disasters are having a significant impact on Canadians. Canada must build a culture of disaster risk reduction that resonates with consumers and engages all levels of government, businesses, and institutions.

"Climate change is affecting our country both environmentally and economically," added Forgeron. "We will continue to work with the federal government in the areas of mitigation, adaptation, and emergency management – all of which form the basis of a comprehensive climate strategy."   

About Insurance Bureau of Canada
Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. For more than 50 years, IBC has worked with governments across the country to help make affordable home, auto and business insurance available for all Canadians. IBC supports the vision of consumers and governments trusting, valuing and supporting the private P&C insurance industry. It champions key issues and helps educate consumers on how best to protect their homes, cars, businesses and properties.

P&C insurance touches the lives of nearly every Canadian and plays a critical role in keeping businesses safe and the Canadian economy strong. It employs more than 120,000 Canadians, pays $8.2 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $49 billion.

For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow IBC on Twitter @InsuranceBureau and like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC.

If you require more information, IBC spokespeople are available to discuss the details in this media release.

SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada

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