A group of 94 Catholic priests yesterday denounced the Central American Free-Trade Agreement with the United States (CAFTA), which they say would be a “radical reform to the state.”

An eight-page document signed by priests from around the country concludes that the “no” vote should prevail in a nationwide referendum on this controversial trade pact to be held Oct. 7.

The group made this pronouncement despite San José Archbishop Hugo Barrantes ordering church leaders to remain neutral about the pact.

In the document, the priests spell out their concerns about CAFTA, including the way they say it was negotiated behind Costa Ricans' backs and the “imposition of a neo-liberal state with its concomitant extension of division and social injustice.”

Those who work in the agricultural and industrial sectors will be the “great losers” if CAFTA is passed because of the “triangulation and diversion of trade to other Central American countries,” the statement says.

Barrantes reacted to this action by maintaining his stance that religious leaders should not choose sides on this nationwide debate.

“What I've taught the church is that we are above, not for or against” CAFTA, he said.

-Tico Times