Sault Ste. Marie MP Terry Sheehan has been reappointed to the federal government’s Standing Committee on International Trade.
Part of his role as a committee member will involve helping to implement the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
It outlines key outcomes for Canadian businesses, workers and communities in areas such as labour, environment, automotive trade, dispute resolution, culture, energy, and agriculture and agri-food. CUSMA also includes language on gender and Indigenous peoples’ rights.
“I’m really pleased to once again work closely with colleagues on the international trade file,” Sheehan said in a Jan. 30 news release.
“Trade is critical to the growth of the economy of Sault Ste. Marie and for the rest of the country.”
Earlier in the week, Chrystia Freeland, deputy prime minister and minister of intergovernmental affairs, tabled Bill C-4, legislation to implement CUSMA.
Following the bill’s debate, it will be sent to the International Trade Committee, which will then undertake a study as part of the process to implement the agreement.
CUSMA replaces the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The three parties signed an agreement to enact CUSMA on Nov. 30, 2018.
The new agreement will maintain the tariff-free market access from NAFTA and includes updates and new chapters to address modern-day trade challenges and opportunities.
