Official Opposition statement on World Refugee Day

NDP Citizenship and Immigration critic Lysane Blanchette-Lamothe (Pierrefonds – Dollard) made the following statement on World Refugee Day:

“Today, New Democrats join Canadians and people around the world to mark World Refugee Day; and raise awareness of the plight of millions of people who have had to abandon their homes due to conflict and persecution.

“For Canada, welcoming refugees has traditionally been about more than an international obligation and responsibility. We recognize the fundamental dignity of those facing struggle and hardship around the world, and we commit to building a stronger, fairer and more inclusive society.

“Unfortunately, the Conservatives have turned their back on our proud heritage and renounced the Canadian value of helping those in need. Millions of people have been forced to flee violence in Syria. However, under Stephen Harper’s Conservatives, Canada will only resettle a small number of people and has been very slow to actually get any refugees here.

“We recognise the countries that have opened their borders to displaced persons from countries like Syria, Libya and Eritrea; and call on the Conservatives to take immediate steps to do more to help refugees.”