New Democrats called for emergency debate on Sri Lanka

OTTAWA – As the violence continues to escalate in Sri Lanka, New Democrat leader Jack Layton called on the Conservative government to allow an emergency Parliamentary debate in the House of Commons.

“We are hearing from the Sri Lankan community about the devastation and horrors the people are facing – as Canadians, we must advocate for peace and address the situation immediately,” said Layton.

On Tuesday, Layton met with representatives from the Canadian Tamil Congress in Ottawa, and yesterday, Layton spoke at a rally on Parliament Hill, raising awareness about the conflict and urging the Government of Canada to intervene.

“To date, Canada has failed to fully use its diplomatic powers to seek a ceasefire, supply proper emergency aid, or ensure access for aid organizations to civilians trapped in the conflict zone,” continued Layton.

In a statement released earlier this week, New Democrats outlined their hope that through diplomatic channels at the United Nations and the Commonwealth, Canada would work cooperatively to ensure humanitarian aid reaches the civilians most affected by the conflict, guarantee international monitors and independent media outlets have access to Sri Lanka.

“There is a need for an immediately ceasefire as well as the urgent engagement of Canadian parliamentarians to discuss and guide the government in addressing this humanitarian crisis,” concluded Layton.