In the recent 2011 Rotterdam Convention, Harper's government refused to put chrysotile asbestos on a United Nations list of hazardous exports. Canada was the only country in the world to block this otherwise important movement to improving international health and safety.

It was the third time Canada has stepped in to prevent placing asbestos on a list of exports that would have to include warnings of health hazards to recipient countries. Those countries could then refuse the asbestos imports if they believed they were unable to handle the product safely on their soil. Instead, Canada is able to continue shipping this harmful substance to developing countries, and continue profiting from this highly dangerous substance.

The inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause serious illnesses, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, (a formerly rare cancer strongly associated with exposure to amphibole asbestos), and asbestosis. The World Health Organization says as many as 107,000 people die each year from asbestos-related illness.

Stephen Harper's government has stood behind the harmful substance to protect the chrysotile mining industry in Quebec. Tell the Canadian government that we are not willing to jeopardize the lives of millions of people internationally to protect this industry. Asbestos belongs on the hazardous substances list. Tell the Conservative government that Canadians DO NOT stand behind asbestos exports!