| Bezan, U.S. Trade Rep Discuss COOL |
| Written by Kelvin Heppner | |
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The United States Trade Representative says he remains hopeful that Canada and the U.S. can reach a compromise over country-of-origin labeling (COOL) legislation. Selkirk-Interlake MP James Bezan met with Ambassador Ron Kirk last week. "Kirk says there shouldn't be any reason why we can't sit down at the table, as neighbours, allies and friends, and come to a compromise position," says Bezan, pointing out the two governments have been able to settle differences on softwood lumber and "Buy American" policies in the last few years. "He is definitely a friend of Canada and his interest lies in trying to find a compromise. However, Agriculture Secretary Vilsack has the lead on this file and that will be the greatest difficulty in resolving this issue quickly," notes Bezan. Kirk indicated to Bezan that the U.S. will not be backing down when it comes to the WTO case surrounding COOL. Both Canada and Mexico argue the U.S. is violating its trade agreements with the legislation. WTO panel hearings regarding COOL are set to begin at the end of August. Since coming into effect in September of 2008, COOL has devastated the Canadian livestock industry as American packers have discounted animals born in Canada. Bezan pointed out to Kirk that COOL has also reduced productivity and competitiveness in the U.S. meat industry. The American Meat Institute is on the record for saying first year costs for the legislation include "$299 million for the pork industry and $1.25 billion for the beef industry." |
