NDP urges Canadian assistance in the Balkans

The NDP is calling for Canadian assistance in the wake of devastating floods in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia.

“Our thoughts are with the people of the Balkans at this very difficult time,” said NDP International Cooperation critic Hélène Laverdière (Laurier—Sainte-Marie). “The Government of Canada should contribute any possible financial, material, and logistical assistance, working in coordination with international partners and local authorities, to help in the rescue, evacuation, and reconstruction phases.”

Although the full consequences of the disaster remain unknown, the floods constitute the biggest natural disaster in the recent history of the region. Both rescue equipment and basic necessities are urgently needed.

“The European Union and the United States have already announced support, and Canada should help as well,” added NDP Foreign Affairs critic Paul Dewar (Ottawa Centre). “Given the scale of the crisis, the Government should offer to deploy Canada’s Disaster Assistance Response Team.”