NDP calls for three major studies at foreign affairs committee

New Democrats are taking the lead at the Foreign Affairs Committee by proposing studies on some of the most pressing issues facing the international community: the brutal onslaught of ISIL, the aftermath of this summer’s conflict in the Middle East, and the democratic movement in Hong Kong.

“Conservatives have not proposed any new activities at foreign affairs committee since the spring, even as important international issues have impacted Canada and Canadians,” said NDP foreign affairs critic Paul Dewar (Ottawa-Centre). “We're calling on government members of the foreign affairs committee to support the NDP agenda for focused committee hearings on these crucial issues.”

The NDP's proposed studies would examine Canada’s response to ISIL-perpetrated violence in Iraq and Syria, opportunities for Canada to support Gaza reconstruction, and the situation in Hong Kong.

“Conservatives may be unwilling to propose a timely agenda for committee, but New Democrats are ready,” added NDP International Development Critic Hélène Laverdière. “These studies would help produce principled and pragmatic policies, based on expert testimony and thoughtful consideration.”