The MAI includes a number of far-reaching rules that will restrict governments' ability to regulate foreign investments, because we must not forget that it gives businesses the new right to challenge government decisions. “In short, the MAI would give government and private enterprise the same status in law”, the writer commented.
Finally, and in the interests of transparency, the Bloc Quebecois is asking the Canadian government to refer the text of the agreement back to the members of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade before it is signed. Once again, it is absolutely essential that the Minister of International Trade meet this requirement for transparency.
In closing, I would like to move an amendment to the Reform motion. I move:
That the motion be amended by adding the following after the final use of the word “Agreement”: “, in particular by refusing to make a commitment to submit the text of the MAI to the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade, and more specifically to its Sub-Committee on International Trade, Trade Disputes and Investment, before signing the Agreement.”