One of the files that I`ve been working on as your MP is the Canada-Colombia Free Trade Agreement. This agreement is almost universally accepted as good for Canada. Saskatchewan pulse growers, hog producers and cattlemen, in particular, stand to gain from free trade with Colombia.

But the agreement has been characterized as “bad for Colombians” by some non-government organizations (NGOs) in Canada. The funny thing is that the Colombians themselves mostly support the free trade agreement.

Only one minor candidate of the six currently running for president in Colombia is opposed to the deal. If 90 per cent of voters in Colombia (who support these five presidential candidates) want free trade with Canada, that is quite the mandate to sign the deal.

Countries like Colombia want to trade with Canada and create their own wealth; they are not looking for handouts.

I have friends and yes, family from Colombia. I know Colombia has its problems. But if Colombians want to trade with Canada, Canadians should take advantage of the opportunity and bring prosperity to both nations.

I’m Brad Trost, your Member of Parliament in Saskatoon-Humboldt. You can call my office in Saskatoon at 975-6133 or drop by our two offices to visit: Saskatoon Monday-Friday or Humboldt Tuesday and Wednesday. I always appreciate your feedback.