12 August 2015

Climate – a big reason Kiwis say no to the TPPA!

We’re not “politically irrelevant” and we’re not “anti-trade”.

“International trade agreements should support, not undermine, global health and environmental treaties. We can't have overseas investors putting up barriers to any country reducing carbon emissions. Climate change is a medical emergency,” said Dr Alex Macmillan, co-convenor for OraTaiao: New Zealand Climate and Health Council

Ora Taiao is one of the many organisations concerned at what New Zealand may be committed to by the TPPA.

Tens of thousands of people representing community groups, artists, musicians, activists, Maori leaders, small and medium-sized business owners, not-for-profits, environmentalists, students, doctors, local councillors and grassroots campaigners from all around New Zealand have joined forces to say no to the TPPA. This massive collaboration of leaders across society repudiates Trade Minister Tim Groser’s claims that TPPA opponents are "anti-trade" "politically irrelevant" and "breathless children".

Dr Macmillan, who is a public health doctor and Senior Lecturer in Environmental Health, added, “Fossil fuel industries around the world are using trade deals to block communities as they move to cut greenhouse gas pollution and protect health. New Zealand needs to join treaties that will help us keep global temperatures stable, not ones that will push up carbon and worsen global warming.”

Petitions of concern have been signed by more than 100,000 people. The groups involved in the petitions will be handing over a joint petition at Parliament on Wednesday 12 August as part of a TPPA lunchtime rally.

ENDS

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