NDP statement on Neil Bantleman

Official Opposition Foreign Affairs Critic Paul Dewar (Ottawa Centre) and Official Opposition Critic for Consular Affairs Wayne Marston (Hamilton-Stoney Creek) made the following statement today:

"The NDP is concerned about the circumstances of the arrest, detention and trial of Canadian citizen Neil Bantleman in Jakarta, Indonesia. Mr. Bantleman stands accused of a very serious crime and could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted."

"We echo the concerns raised by the embassies of the United States, United Kingdom and Australia about the detention of Mr. Bantleman, who was held for three months without being charged."

"We also note U.S. State Department reports of corruption and harsh prison conditions in the Indonesian justice system."

"Accordingly, we urge the Government of Canada to press Indonesian authorities to ensure that Mr. Bantleman’s rights are properly safeguarded throughout his trial, in strict accordance with international norms."