New Democrats in Canada join Tamils in demanding action on Sri Lanka

New Democrats on Wednesday joined the protesting Tamils on Parliament Hill, calling on Canada to create pressure on the United Nations for ensuring safety for all civilians in Sri Lanka and for humanitarian aid to be distributed to those in need, especially in the concentration camps.

Although New Democrat leader Jack Layton was not in Ottawa today, he passed along a message to the protesters through fellow New Democrat MP Peter Julian (Burnaby-New Westminster).

“We have outlined our own demands to the Prime Minister, such as expediting the process to accept refugees and allow orphans to be brought to Canada and raised by their extended families here,” said Julian.

“We also want the Government of Sri Lanka to allow international observers into the country because we fear the killings could be taking place on a larger scale than reported. That is why it is vital for international monitors and media to report on the reality of the situation.”

While making a statement on Sri Lankan situation in the House of Commons last month, Layton requested the Speaker to allow for a second emergency parliamentary debate, but it was not granted. The first debate took place in February, upon Latyon’s insistence. He has also been meeting with Tamil leaders from the community and working with the Prime Minister’s Office.

In a statement, Layton said, “Canadians have an obligation to help Sri Lanka become a peaceful, democratic state. This can only happen once the humanitarian crisis is addressed.”