The European parliament passed a resolution this weekend challenging some of core elements of ACTA, challenging the assumption that the EU is saturated with spineless bureaucrats. The resolution brings up issues such as:

• Internet disconnection without a judge or court examination
• Personal border searches
• The potential of increased border inspection and seizure to be used against legitimate products
• Three strikes policy
• Failure to include developing nations in negotiations

It is a pleasant surprise to see the EU taking a swipe at this secretive, closed-doors discussion about the future of our civil liberties. The potential for abuse in such a far-reaching piece of international legislation is tremendous, and it is an atrocity that the details of this legislation are being kept from public scrutiny. The last thing this struggling economy needs is more obstacles and greater intrusion. Perhaps before our good officials start intruding into each and every one of OUR lives, we should be permitted to have a little access to what these Upper Rats are doing. Seems like the spotlight is being pointed in the wrong direction.

Sadly, considering the incredible intrusion of civil liberties proposed, Canadian officials have merely shown concern over definitions and semantics. Barack Obama is looking forward to moving ahead with the legislation and has yet to show concern.

It is all too clear that our North American politicians have lost all touch with the realities of their people. Big business first, liberty second – a sad state of affairs.