May 12, 2016
OTTAWA, ON – Official Opposition International Trade Critic, the Hon. Gerry Ritz, issued the following statement, calling on the Liberal Government to make a decision on the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement in time for the North American Leaders’ Summit in Ottawa, when Canada hosts the Presidents of the United States and Mexico:
“It’s time for the Liberal government to tell Canadians and our North American allies whether they support the biggest trade agreement in over 20 years. They have consulted for over six months now and have tens of thousands of pages of submissions and testimony from Canadians. Ongoing delays are nothing but stall tactics to avoid making tough decisions.”
“TPP is a contentious issue in Washington right now, but this is not the time to back away from our principles. Canada has always fought for an open, rule-based trading system that facilitates commerce and raises living standards around the world. The next few months will determine the TPP’s future, and we should not be watching from the sidelines.”
“On April 14, Prime Minister Trudeau said ‘Canada’s word needs to mean something in the international community. It is important that people know that when they sign a deal with Canada, when we sign a commercial agreement, a change in government isn’t going to lead to that contract being ripped up.’ “
“Mr. Trudeau has the opportunity to uphold that promise. On June 29th, he can honour Canada’s word by saying he supports the Trans-Pacific Partnership or he can rip up the agreement standing next to Presidents’ Obama and Nieto.”
