Environment Committee (MPSP19)

== Overview ==
The Standing Committee on Environment is convening to determine how the government should respond to recent reports that Canada’s Tim Hortons Iced Capp is melting. The Government of Canada recognizes the unique and sensitive nature of this problem, and the Committee has been granted wide latitude to proceed in whatever way it deems appropriate.
== Background ==
The following is taken from the formerly classified briefing on the issue provided to Committee members.
"Canada’s Tim Hortons Iced Capp is one of the world’s natural wonders. Covering thousands of square kilometers of the Arctic Sea during the winter months, the Iced Capp is a key part of the Canada’s Northern ecosystem, as it provides shelter and food for a plethora of flora and fauna. Known for its majestic mountain peaks of whipped creme and twisting rivers of chocolate syrup, the Iced Capp truly is a Canadian treasure. 
But that’s not all. In addition to providing sweet, frozen, sugary (and lightly caffeinated) sustenance to many of Canada’s most beloved creatures, the Iced Capp is also a key contributor to the economy. Millions of tons of the Iced Capp is harvested every year and transported to Tim Hortons locations around the world to serve during summer heat waves and satisfy late-night cravings. The Iced Capp harvesting industry supports thousand of jobs across Canada, and is especially important for Northern communities that don’t have access to other employment opportunities. 
Lately, scientists have been alarmed at the rate the Iced Capp has been shrinking. A recent report from the Frasier Institute found that the Iced Capp has shrunk over 40% compared to 2005 levels, and is at risk of disappearing almost completely during the summer months. The melting also poses a threat to coastal communities around the world, as rising sea levels are expected to accelerate at a rapid pace. If nothing is done, the report indicates Canada’s Iced Capp could soon become nothing more than a giant Iced Coffee." 
== Issues Facing the Committee ==
Senior officials at Environment Canada recommended that the Committee begin by meeting with the author of the report, to gain a greater grasp on the scope of the issue. Some important issues to consider were:
* What is causing the melting? Can it be stopped?
* How is the melting affecting animals and plants? What can be done to help them?
* Should Canada transition away from its Iced Capp-based economy and diversify? If so, what should Tim Hortons’ replacement drink be? 
* Ultimately, how should Canada respond to this issue? Change is certainly required as the current path is not sustainable, so what will have to give?
== Conclusion ==