NDP MP McPherson's motion to study solutions for peace in Israel and Palestine to be voted on by all parties

OTTAWA— On Thursday, NDP MP Heather McPherson (Edmonton Strathcona) will call on members of the Foreign Affairs Committee to vote in favour of a study on how Canada can support peace in Israel/Palestine. The proposed study comes as tensions rise in the region and on the first anniversary of the death of Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh.

“As Canada launches its bid for a seat at the United Nations Human Rights Council, the government must take a serious look at its foreign policy, especially in regard to human rights and international law in the Middle East,” said McPherson. “Canada’s Foreign Affairs committee has not studied Israel/Palestine for decades, but the troubling events of the past days and weeks have underscored just how urgently solutions are needed.”

MP McPherson’s motion calls on the Foreign Affairs Committee to study “the actions Canada should take to foster peace and respect for human rights and international law in the region” of Israel and Palestine. Several faith and human rights groups support her motion.

“Today, we are as far from a peaceful solution as we have ever been,” said McPherson. “It’s time to listen and learn how Canada can better promote peace for both Palestinians and Israelis. We need to be a voice for human rights and justice – not shy away from tough conversations.”