Statement by NDP leader Tom Mulcair on Hillary Clinton and the Trans-Pacific Partnership

NDP Leader Tom Mulcair made the following statement:

“I welcome news that Hillary Clinton has joined other senior Democrats in the United States in opposing this bad deal. It is now clearer than ever that we don’t have to accept Stephen Harper’s TPP. A better deal is possible – if we’re willing to stand up and fight for it.

International trade is important. Good trade can create jobs and increase connections between countries. But our approach must never become ideological – it must always be based on the best interests of Canadians.

My priority in evaluating trade deals has been consistent – fight for fair deals that expand market access and treat Canadian industries fairly. That means standing up for good Canadian jobs, fighting for our families and our communities.

Too often, Stephen Harper has failed at negotiating good deals. When it comes to TPP, he simply had no mandate to sign a major agreement, in secret, just days before an election. I have been clear that I will not be bound by Stephen Harper’s TPP deal.

Like Hillary Clinton, we also believe in setting a high bar for negotiations. As Prime Minister, I am ready to bring change to Ottawa. I will do what Stephen Harper failed to do and Justin Trudeau refuses to do – I will not be bound by Harper’s TPP and will fight for a better deal for Canadian families.”