March 01, 2010

NEW DEMOCRATS CALL FOR HEARINGS INTO INVESTMENT CANADA ACT

Thibeault and Masse concerned about foreign companies having too much power on Canadian soil


SUDBURY – When companies like Vale and Xstrata moved into Canada and swallowed up our valuable natural resources, Canadians were assured by the Harper government that these take-overs would be good for the country.

But Sudbury MP Glenn Thibeault and Windsor MP Brian Masse, the NDP critic for Industry Canada, question the so-called “net benefit to Canada”.

“On many occasions, this government has ignored its responsibility to get involved and protect jobs” said Masse.  “That is why we need to review the Investment Canada Act and make sure strict guidelines are being followed.

Thibeault and Nickel Belt MP Claude Gravelle have expressed their concerns on many occasions in Ottawa, yet there has been no action from the Conservatives. 

“We trusted this government and look what has happened” said Thibeault. “Xstrata has eliminated hundreds of jobs and Vale Inco workers have been walking a picket line for close to 8 months now.”

Masse says there are several other examples across the country where jobs and pensions have gone up in smoke without any government protection. “This has to stop and that is why we need to take action immediately.”

Masse and Thibeault are returning to the House of Commons this week and plan to introduce a motion at Industry Committee to address the issue. 

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For further information, please contact:

Brian Band, Office of Glenn Thibeault, 705-673-7107 or thibeg1a@parl.gc.ca

Mohummed Peer, Office of Brian Masse, 519-982-8816
AT YOUR SERVICE:
40 Elm Street, Suite 103a
Rainbow Centre
Sudbury, ON P3C 1S8
Tel: 705.673.7107
Fax: 705.673.0944
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