MEPs assess EU-Canada CETA trade deal
Members of the International Trade Committee discussed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between Canada and the European Union (CETA) on Wednesday, thus launching the official consent procedure. MEPs differed in their assessment of the deal, which can only enter into force with the EP’s approval.
Some MEPs argued that CETA was a fair and transparent agreement, fully in line with the earlier demands of Parliament, and said that it would greatly benefit the European economy, especially small and medium enterprises. After years of negotiations, the EU’s credibility was at stake, they argued, proposing that CETA be applied provisionally after the Parliament has given its consent. Others were more cautious and suggested to scrutinize the text further. A number of MEPs raised concerns regarding European social and environmental standards, the future of public services and states’ right to regulate in their own countries. Some members rejected the deal outright, echoing fears that it will undermine democracy and only benefit multinational companies.
You can watch the whole debate here (link is live soon)