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No response on trade zone query

Editor: Obviously I am mistaken, as I had thought the tax-paying public would be entitled to know what is intended with regard to the establishment of an international free trade zone in Canada. So far we do know that both the federal and B.C.

Editor:

Obviously I am mistaken, as I had thought the tax-paying public would be entitled to know what is intended with regard to the establishment of an international free trade zone in Canada.

So far we do know that both the federal and B.C. governments are pursuing this idea, but otherwise, despite approaches to them, we seem unable to find out what is proposed or decided.

Delta is one obvious site that could be a prime choice for such a zone. The recent visit to China by Prime Minister Stephen Harper implies this was indeed part of the discussions. Perhaps this is another example of secret decisions that can affect our environment and financial situation in many ways.

Seven months have passed since I sent a letter to Ottawa via our MP asking for information. Despite a reminder from her office, the reply has been mute.

There is a degree of similarity to the process that led to various port agreements during the TFN treaty negotiations, which were held behind closed doors.

The impression there is an agenda for South Delta is also reinforced by the continued secrecy surrounding the Metro negotiations with TFN and Delta with regard to the sewage and infrastructure for the proposed development of TFN lands.

No doubt once decisions have been made there will be the usual stakeholder cosmetic "consultation" processes. Surely it is time for all levels of government to come clean on their agenda for our area?

Peter Duffey