Protesters spoke out against a controversial new trade agreement with China this weekend.
The protesters gathered at Calgary’s Olympic plaza on Sunday, to voice their concerns.
On Monday, The House of Commons is set to vote on a motion against ratifying the act, which is designed to promote foreign investment in Canada.
Those opposed to the Canada- China Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, or FIPA, argue that it is undemocratic and harmful to Canadians.
“Our freedom to make laws in Canada for Canadians, that work for Canadians; that’s what’s at stake here,” says Brian Seaman, a Calgary human rights and civil liberties lawyer.
Critics say under the new law Chinese companies could sue if they feel they’re not being treated the same as Canadian businesses. They say taxpayers would be on the hook for these legal costs.
“Going forward, if Canada wanted to enact tougher environmental regulations, the Chinese could object and say this is impacting our bottom line, “explains Seaman.
Demonstrators also say that the Chinese takeover of Calgary-based Nexen would lock Canada into the deal for the next 31 years.
The Harper government, however, says the new agreement would provide stronger protection for Canadians investing in China and create more jobs.
With files from Tracy Nagai.
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