Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Ms. Katz, thank you for being with us today.
We know there is no study to say what the economic impact would be of Canada's joining the Pacific Alliance as a full member. Nor is there an independent assessment of how that decision might affect human rights. I believe you said that, in order to learn more, we would have to start by hearing what the economists have to say.
The Canadian Council for International Co-operation has, in the past, denounced Canada's tendency to negotiate agreements in absolute secrecy and without regard for parliamentary debate. As regards the negotiations with countries belonging to the Pacific Alliance, is it your sense that the talks will be more open in this case? What would you recommend to the federal government to encourage greater transparency when negotiating trade agreements?
Do you think Canada should see to it that legal provisions on corporate social responsibility are put in place? Corporate social responsibility is a value we hold dear, on our side. Such a step would help ensure that Canadian entities investing in member countries of the Pacific Alliance adhered to universal human rights standards.