Canada must join EU & UN human rights efforts in Sri Lanka

HALIFAX – Canada must take immediate diplomatic action to ensure Sri Lanka allows an independent investigation into human rights abuses committed during the conflict, declared New Democrats at their party convention.

“The EU and the UN have been active in addressing the severe situation in Sri Lanka while Canada has stood on the sidelines,” said New Democrat Leader Jack Layton. “Canadians know that we have a large role to play in protecting human rights and working for peace in crisis situations like the one in Sri Lanka. It’s time the Prime Minister started living up to those expectations.”

At their policy convention today, New Democrats passed a resolution demanding the Canadian government press Sri Lanka to provide unhindered access to international monitors and independent media, expedite humanitarian assistance, and facilitate the return of displaced Tamils. The party also urged the government to offer urgently-needed humanitarian aid, accelerate the reunification of Tamil families in Canada, and better support children orphaned by the conflict.

Layton and his team have consistently urged the Harper government to work harder to prevent human rights abuse and end the humanitarian crisis in Sri Lanka.

“Canada can and must do more,” said Layton. “We can be a strong voice for peace on the global stage. Children in Sri Lanka need us to take up that responsibility today.”