CUPE Canadian Union of Public Employees : TPP still a bad deal for Canadian workers, families, and democracy

[Attachment] Canada and the other 10 countries negotiating the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) have reached an agreement. But adding 'progressive' to the title doesn't make it so, when the agreement fails to address the many serious concerns that experts and everyday Canadians have about this enormous trade deal.

The government claims it's made gains on culture, as well as labour and environmental standards. But those changes are only included in the introductory remarks and side agreements, rather than in the core deal, and the details are still secret.

The Trudeau government hasn't shown a shred of evidence the deal will benefit Canadians. Instead, they continue to operate in silence, keeping Canadians in the dark about this far-reaching trade and investment pact.

It's no secret that the TPPthreatens Canadian jobs, public services and culture - even with the United States out of the deal. The TPPhas been negotiated without adequate transparency and is strongly opposed by the Canadian public.

'Public consultations on the TPPwere crystal clear: Canadians don't want this bad trade deal,' said CUPENational President Mark Hancock. 'But instead of listening, the prime minister has rushed ahead. It's not too late to walk away from a deal that threatens our jobs, culture and democracy.'

CUPEis particularly concerned with protecting Canadian and Quebecois cultural productions.

'Our culture is the bedrock of our identity,' said CUPENational Secretary-Treasurer Charles Fleury. 'Canadian negotiators want us to believe we're protected. But they've settled for individual letters with each of the 10 countries - and haven't released the text. That's far from reassuring.'

The TPPendangers public services, including health care. Experts warn that the TPPwill 'obstruct efforts to renew and expand public health care,' including being a barrier to a much-needed national pharmacare program.

The TPP's Investor-State Dispute Settlement rules remain virtually unchanged, giving foreign multinationals the right to challenge public policies adopted by democratically-elected governments.

Rushing to sign the TPPin the middle of tense NAFTAnegotiations undermines the possibility of a progressive strategy on NAFTAand future trade deals.

According to reports, Canada and the other 10 countries will sign the final TPPin March.

• Check out 'What's the big deal?' - resources on the TPPfrom the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives