Ratification of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)

28.4.2015

Question for written answer E-006717-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Paloma López Bermejo (GUE/NGL)

Despite the fact that the Commission takes the view that negotiations on CETA are complete, there are still doubts over whether it can be ratified. In the parallel negotiations on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, the European people’s movement against investor-state dispute settlement has highlighted that it will be difficult, at least in that particular area, to agree to its inclusion in CETA, not to mention other elements that are detrimental to the wellbeing of European workers and consumers.

There are also doubts surrounding the ratification process arising from the specific characteristics of the agreement in comparison with those of other free trade agreements negotiated in the past.

What is the planned timeframe for ratification of CETA by Europe and Canada?

What elements negotiated as part of CETA would require ratification by the parliaments and governments of the Member States?

Does the Commission take the view that a vote against or opposition on the part of a Member State government would automatically lead to the agreement not being applied?