Avi Lewis, a candidate for the leadership of the New Democratic Party (NDP), stated that Canada must stop increasing fossil fuel production, comparing it to an addiction. During a panel discussion on Friday, Lewis emphasized his stance against further expansion of natural gas, oil, and coal in Canada. He shared the stage with fellow candidates, labor leader Rob Ashton and Edmonton MP Heather McPherson, at the Mouseland Gala in Ottawa.

"We need really straightforward policies that distinguish ourselves from the federal Liberals," Lewis said. He added, "We cannot keep increasing fossil fuel production in this country." Lewis argued that the federal NDP should be willing to have disagreements with its provincial counterparts on this issue. He also mentioned the existence of safer energy generation methods that align with modern needs.

Lewis described society's reliance on fossil fuels as an addiction driven by greed. He stated, "[Fossil fuel addiction] is as much an addiction to the revenues from fossil fuels from provincial and federal governments as it is an addiction to the substance itself."

He pointed out that scientists have long warned that burning fossil fuels contributes significantly to global warming. According to the United Nations, fossil fuels are responsible for approximately 68% of global greenhouse gas emissions and nearly 90% of carbon dioxide emissions.

McPherson, who represents an oil-producing province, did not directly oppose Lewis during the discussion but later characterized his comments as outdated. "That's been in the policy of the NDP since Jack Layton," she told reporters, adding that there was nothing new in Lewis's statements. The NDP's 2021 policy book does not explicitly commit to limiting fossil fuel production expansion, although it does call for an end to federal support for fossil fuel subsidies.

The previous NDP leaders, Thomas Mulcair and Jagmeet Singh, faced challenges in effectively communicating the party's stance on fossil fuels. Mulcair had previously referred to a west-to-east oil pipeline as a "win-win," which complicated the party's position in fossil fuel-producing provinces like Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia.

McPherson outlined her focus on creating job opportunities for young people in various sectors, including trades, arts, culture, healthcare, childcare, and green jobs through a proposed Youth Climate Corps. She also advocated for high-speed rail, retrofitting buildings, and developing a clean energy corridor.

Ashton, another candidate, spoke about the importance of expanding renewable energy, particularly wind power. He stated, "Those windmills should be built here, by the way, and not import them from other countries. We should be putting them up 100 percent with union jobs."

When asked about expanding fossil fuel production, Ashton acknowledged its role in supporting families. He emphasized the need for careful consideration of projects, ensuring they are developed with the consent of Indigenous nations, and assessing their environmental impacts. Ashton stressed the importance of balancing economic growth with emission reductions, stating, "We have to come up with ideas that enhance a green economy that puts good unionized jobs into play."

The NDP leadership race has gained attention following the party's significant losses in the last election, where it dropped from 24 MPs to just seven, losing its official party status. The new leader will face the challenge of rebuilding the party and reconnecting with its base. The panel discussion was moderated by Jordan Leichnitz and included video remarks from other candidates Tanille Johnston and Tony McQuail.

As the race continues, candidates are presenting differing visions for the future of the NDP, aiming to restore the party's fortunes after a disappointing electoral performance.