September 20, 2006
THE SOFTWOOD LUMBER AGREEMENT PASSES!
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.
