Bring any new Libya mission before Parliament: New Democrats

OTTAWA- New Democrats are calling on the Conservative Government to focus Canadian efforts in Libya on reconstruction and building democratic institutions, while respecting the UN mandate.

New Democrat Defence critic Jack Harris expressed concerns that the Prime Minister risks overstepping the UN mandate at today’s NATO meetings in Italy.

“We want Canada to play a significant role in the reconstruction of Libya,” said Harris. “We need to focus on diplomacy and nation building. Extending the military mission is not the best way to do that, in fact the military mission should be winding down.”

Harris was responding to news that Conservative Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird had suggested Canadian forces continue the Libyan mission beyond the scheduled end date of September 27th. Baird and Stephen Harper are currently in Italy meeting with other NATO allies to discuss Libya’s future.

New Democrats supported Canada’s involvement in the NATO mission in support of UN resolution 1973 and Government must not unilaterally change the terms for the mission without returning to Parliament.

“We must remember that the UN mandate was to protect civilians from the brutal Gadhafi regime, we are at the end of that threat and Canada should be making plans to bring the Canadian forces home.” said Harris. “Any extension of the mission, or any changes to the terms of reference, must be brought to the House of Commons. Canadians deserve to have their say.”