Dear editor,
We are very concerned about how the FIPA agreement will affect the future of our country particularly as it relates to our children and grandchildren.
From what we have read, it certainly will have a serious detrimental affect on our democratic rights including our right to protect our environment. It feels as if our birth rights, according to our constitution, are being threatened.
Our personal opinion is that our priority is to acknowledge that planet Earth is our home and that we are its caretakers rather then it being bartered as a commodity for financial gain.
John Duncan tells us the FIPA agreement does not impair Canada's environmental culture and safeguards while at the same time his government is either eliminating or reducing environmental protection for the benefit of corporations (apparently including Chinese corporations) until they are virtually non-existent.
He tells us the agreement safeguards Canadian investment in China while not addressing the alarming questions that have arisen regarding the risks and detrimental affects that it could have in undermining our own economy and/or democratic rights. Nor does he comment on the effects it would have on the future well-being of our children and grandchildren.
John Duncan, we invite you to have an open discussion with the people you represent to answer their questions and deep concerns and to explain why, in spite of their concerns, you personally support this agreement.
Surely it is time that we have, as promised, an open rather then secretive and misleading government in Ottawa.
Rowan and Barbara Ley,
Comox