“Hopefully our communities with ruling against TTIP ‘- Internal Administration – Provincial Government

Effect TTIP
Tiel the trade agreement was first in a municipal council in the Netherlands brought to the attention. The Gelderland town is also the first who has spoken out against the treaty. Amsterdam is the first of the large municipalities following that example. Part Councillor Marie-Anne Reijen of Groen fears the effect of TTIP public health, food security, employment, the environment, social security, durability and privacy.

Criticism

“We are delighted that Amsterdam has opposed this treaty undesirable ‘says Reijen of which the motion Thursday after midnight had the support of the left-wing majority, but also the necessary criticism from some colleagues. “D66, CDA and VVD said they did not understand why we’re talking about here. Still going TTIP municipalities. There are many concerns or municipalities sustainable products yet to give priority. In addition, the policy to stimulate locally generated energy come under attack. “From Reijen cites the example by Amsterdam city council banned pesticides.

ISDS clause

“A company like Monsanto can by the State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) Amsterdam can sue because their pesticides should not be used. This clause allows large companies legislation, which came about democratically bypass. “As an illustration of Reijen cites an example with company Vattenfall, which already successfully filed a lawsuit against the German city of Hamburg on urban environmental rules. “After her weakness Hamburg rules off. As the town of Hamburg, municipalities fear of compensation claims legislation will shape less severe or may not imagine. But with the threat of a million claim, you are going to think twice. “

Protests

to include Amsterdam Zwolle demonstrators protested against the imminent trade agreement. Hundreds of municipalities and regions including Belgium, Germany and France all spoke out against TTIP. In April, proved by Internal Administration approached provinces and municipalities not yet aware of the possible consequences of TTIP while the agreement does have significant implications for local governments. It is inconceivable that get local authorities a say in the conclusion of the treaty. That rural policy must give approval is still an option. Shadow rapporteur Marietje Schaake said earlier that it is “too complex to involve local parties in the negotiations.”

Sample for other municipalities

Reijen hopes more municipalities to follow Amsterdam in speaking out against TTIP. “We are the first major municipality that has done this. Of course it would be nice if for example, large cities such as Utrecht, The Hague and Rotterdam follow. We’d like to set an example for other municipalities in the Netherlands.