THE SOFTWOOD LUMBER AGREEMENT PASSES!

September 20, 2006

Yesterday, the House of Commons passed an important ways and means motion on the Canada-U.S. Softwood Lumber Agreement.

A good deal for Canada, the Softwood Lumber deal delivers:

• Stable and predictable access to the U.S. market;
• The repayment of $4 billion in disputed duties;
• Provincial and regional flexibility; and
• Certainty, instead of costly litigation.

Unfortunately, the Liberals and NDP chose to put politics before country, and voted against the Agreement. In so doing, they opposed a deal that is supported by:

• Two national governments;
• All of the major softwood lumber-producing provinces; and
• A clear majority of Canadian producers.

The Canada-U.S. Softwood Lumber Agreement ends years of uncertainty and allows us to build a stronger, more prosperous Canada.  The Liberals and NDP owe all Canadians an explanation for their opposition to this deal.