An MP's second reply on the MAI
Shown here to illustrate what you might expect from applying
accountability principles.
Please see analysis under "Meeting with our MP
on the MAI."
17 November 1997
Dear Terry Cottam:
I would like to thank you for your most recent letter and for staying
in touch with my office regarding the Multilateral Agreement on Investment
(MAI) currently being negotiated by the OECD.
As the hearings into the MAI are now underway on Parliament Hill,, we have
had the opportunity to learn more about all aspects of this agreement and
the process with which it is being created. We have had the opportunity
to hear from proponents and opponents of the MAI and this dialogue has
been very useful and informative.
Your letter raised several points. First, let me state that the overriding
objective of this process is to strengthen the Canadian economy and to
create new jobs for our citizens by increasing foreign investment in Canada
and protecting Canadian investments abroad. We have been assured by the
Minister and by our negotiating team that Canada will only sign a deal
that promotes these national interests.
Under the MAI proposal, Canada will maintain its own policies on the provision
of health, education and social services. Our team is negotiating an exception
for cultural industries. These issues are important to Canadians and pivotal
to any successful negotiation. Under the proposed MAI, Canada's environmental
laws would be upheld. A suggested provision of the MAI would ensure fair,
transparent arbitration for foreign investors should they feel that they
have been unfairly treated. Here in Canada, this legal provision already
exists. It would, however, be of great benefit and protection for Canadian
investors abroad.
Your contributions to date have been much appreciated and I look forward
to continuing this useful dialogue in the weeks ahead.
Sincerely,
Mac Harb