While other news services focused on Chile's decision not to put Gen. Augusto Pinochet on trial, "UPI hears ..." has uncovered the real story from Santiago. Despite a last-minute plea by Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien to President Ricardo Lagos, Chile has banned all imports of Canadian asbestos. Chretien insisted that Canadian asbestos properly used was not a health hazard, but Lagos was adamant. Paul Durand, Canada's ambassador in Santiago, accused Chilean Health Minister Michelle Bachelet of being in the thrall to American environmental lobbyists. Canada's asbestos industry exports more than 95 percent of its output, and the ban could ultimately affect 1500 jobs in Quebec. The Chilean asbestos market is only worth $150,000 annually, but, as a Chretien spokesman explained, "It's the principle of the thing: a door is being closed on a Canadian market." What Canadian export will be the next victim of Chile's government: baby seal pelts? THE END ==^================================================================ EASY UNSUBSCRIBE click here: http://topica.com/u/?bUrHhl.bVKZIr Or send an email To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] This email was sent to: [email protected] T O P I C A -- Register now to manage your mail! http://www.topica.com/partner/tag02/register ==^================================================================
