NZers rally against free trade deal
AAP | November 08, 2014
NZers rally against free trade deal
PEOPLE power rather than the interests of corporations will be at the heart of rallies across New Zealand opposing the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement this weekend, protest organisers say.
SIXTEEN rallies and other anti-TPPA action are scheduled for Saturday, with Wellington hosting an It’s Our Future march from Cuba Street to Civic Square at 1pm.
TPPA Action spokeswoman Ariana Paretutanganui-Tamati said it’s important people understand what gains and losses Kiwis stand to make in the free trade deal.
"It is imperative that all New Zealanders know about what this government is negotiating in secret on our behalf," she said.
"The TPPA has wide-reaching implications for us all."
Ms Paretutanganui-Tamati said leaked versions of the TPPA shows it has an emphasis on protecting the profitability of corporations and their investments to the detriment of public interests.
Critics of the trade deal want the government to adopt a 12-point resolution which would force the government to safeguard its decision-making ability in the face of TPPA interests.
The anti-TPPA movement is also circulating petitions calling on local councils to adopt its resolution.
"We are appealing to the public to join us in sending a strong message to this government to stop the TPPA," said Ms Paretutanganui-Tamati.
Greater Wellington regional councillor and former Green MP Sue Kedgley is expected to speak at Saturday’s rally.
