Conservative budget slashes funding to world’s poor

Cuts will further damage Canada’s international reputation: NDP

OTTAWA – Canada’s reputation as a compassionate country on the world stage took another hit today, according to MPs from Canada’s Official Opposition. They were reacting to the Conservative budget which slashes $377.7 million in international development funding aimed at reducing poverty overseas.

“We are incredibly disappointed that the Harper government has decided to balance Canada’s books on the backs of some of the world’s poorest countries,” said Jinny Sims (Newton – North Delta), who is the party’s Critic for International Cooperation. “We have called on the government to lift its freeze on international development spending – so these budget cuts take us in absolutely the wrong direction.”

Sims pointed out that on a global scale, cutting overseas development assistance could mean abandoning Canada’s stated commitment to reaching the Millennium Development Goals by 2015.

“This is just another example of Mr. Harper not being true to his word,” said Sims. “But as much as Canada’s reputation took a major hit today, it’s the world’s poor who will be the biggest losers.”

The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) was also hit hard by today’s budget. The NDP fears the $169.8 million cut at DFAIT will affect working conditions in the Foreign Service and damage Canada’s ability to engage on the world stage.

“The cuts announced today could target important programming in the area of peace and security,” said Hélène Laverdière (Laurier – Ste-Marie) the NDP’s Foreign Affairs Critic. “What kind of message is the Harper government sending to our partners overseas?”

Laverdière is also deeply concerned that Canada intends to re-examine its participation in international organizations.

“For Canada to withdraw from international organizations at this time shows how little the Conservatives care for diplomacy,” said Laverdière. “Canada should be engaging with our international partners and stop contravening our international obligations.”