NDP calling for transparency in trade

NDP International Trade critic Don Davies (Vancouver – Kingsway) is urging the Conservative government to release the full text of the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement to Canadians for input before it is finalized.

“The TPP covers issues that affect many areas of Canada’s economy and society—including several policy areas that have never been subject to trade agreements before,” said Davies. “In the interest of transparency and accountability, trade negotiation documents must be released to the public and in a meaningful way.”

The TPP is a free trade agreement that would cover approximately 40 per cent of global economic output and one-third of world trade. The U.S. Trade Representative office has allowed Members of Congress to view the text and the E.U. has committed to releasing the investment chapter of its current trade negotiations with the U.S. for full public discussion.

“Trade agreements are negotiated for Canadians, not political parties,” said Davies. “Ensuring opportunities for citizen input and comment is vital to any agreement’s success and good public policy,” said Davies.