Leader Robert Metz said Monday his party - which has about 2,000 members - opposes the constitutional agreement, primarily because it encroaches on individual rights and freedoms.
"Canadians need a mandate for freedom and the entrenchment of inalienable individual rights and freedoms which are the cornerstone of any free, unified, and prosperous country," Metz said. "Sadly, regardless of the vote outcome, Canadians will still be left at the mercy of their various governments, with no protection of fundamental freedoms, property rights or freedom of choice."
The Freedom party will distribute informational pamphlets on the referendum, Metz said, and will also make available reprints of the agreement for those who request it.
The council, with about 150 members in its London section, said "these (constitutional) proposals are intended to serve as a reasonable compromise and as the basis for a renewed federalism that will secure our future together."
Executive director Eleanor Appleby said the national organization is encouraging sections across Canada to mount a campaign for the "yes" side. "What they (members) do as individuals is up to them, but we do recommend that they follow the guidelines."
David Somerville, president of the right-wing lobby group, says the social charter included in the accord would bind future governments to costly economic policies
"This charter is just an attempt by Canada's socialists to entrench a failing welfare state in our constitution. If they succeed, it will corrupt the very philosophical foundations of this country."
The coalition also says the deal grants an unacceptable special status to Quebec. which would be guaranteed 25 per cent of seats in the Commons - its current level - even if its population drops in future.
"Such special status would cause a wave of resentment against Quebec across Canada - especially in Alberta and British Columbia," he said.
The coalition, which claims 40,000 supporters across the country, says passing this deal will not end constitutional wrangling.
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last updated on April 30, 2002