CUPE has produced a video about the impact of the Canada – European Union trade deal that is currently being negotiated. The Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) is to be signed by January 2012.
CETA could put vital public services up for sale on the global market including provincial utilities like Manitoba Hydro, postal services, and access to government purchasing at every level. It’s the first time a trade agreement will include municipal activities like purchasing, infrastructure projects and the delivery of municipal services.
The video sheds light on this trade deal that threatens public services, gives extensive power to corporations, and limits local democratic control for municipal governments.
Not only will CETA cost Canadians almost three billion dollars in medication costs annually, but public drinking water and wastewater services could be run by for-profit European corporations.
CUPE National President Paul Moist warns that European corporations are looking for access to Canada’s public services.
“The deal is not out in the open. It’s being driven largely by the European Union wanting access to something new for them – something they don’t have access to now – Canada’s public sector,” said Moist.
Moist and Maude Barlow from the Council of Canadians continue their cross-country tour to talk to Canadians about CETA. The next town hall meetings will be held in Winnipeg on June 27, Halifax on June 28, and in St. John’s on June 29.
These town hall meetings give people in many communities the opportunity to ask questions and learn why CETA is such a bad deal for Canada. Tour stops in other cities are also in the planning stages.