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WHO:
  • Judy Darcy, National President of Canadian Union of Public Employees
  • Fernando Bejarano, Greenpeace Mexico
  • Dr. Angelina Nue007a0020of Mexico, expert on the effects of toxic chemicals on human health.

WHAT:
US-based METALCLAD Corporation is before the BC Supreme Court on Monday February 19th, 2001.

The case arises from a NAFTA ruling that awards Metalclad US$16.7 million in damages after a Mexican municipality denied the company a building permit to operate a toxic waste dump.

Metalclad was denied the permit after local residents protested the adverse health effects of toxic waste on their children and community.

Mexico is now appealing the case at the BC Supreme Court.

WHY:
This case has huge implications for the environment, public services and local democracy and is the first court challenge of a NAFTA tribunal.

CUPE and Greenpeace are concerned that NAFTAs Chapter 11 limits the power of governments to rule in the public interest and gives corporations the power to overrule or intimidate governments.

WHEN:
Monday February 19th, at 9:30 a.m.

WHERE:
Hyatt Regency Hotel, Oxford Room on the 3rd floor. The hotel is located at 655 Burrard Street, Vancouver.

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For more information, visit cupe.ca or contact:

Miranda Holmes, Greenpeace
(604) 551-3206 (cellular)

Robert Fox, CUPE Communications
(613) 795-4977 (cellular)

Catherine Louli, CUPE Communications
(613) 237-1590, ext. 268 - (613) 851-0547 (cellular)