Ceasefire.ca

32 Responses to “Do you know where your local candidates stand on peace and human rights issues?”

1. admin Says:
   October 19th, 2008 at 8:09 am

   —– Original Message —–
   From: Yelich Campaign

   Sent: Tuesday, October 14, 2008 12:43 PM
   Subject: REPLY TO YOUR LETTER: I’m voting for the peace and human rights

   Dear Dr. Adamson:

   Thank you for your letter on this important issue. Please be assured that the Conservative Government continues to advance Canadian values and interests on the international stage by providing much-needed assistance to the world’s poor. Prime Minister Harper has said: “It is in the nature of Canadians to share the peace and prosperity we have achieved here with countries torn by war, poverty or natural disaster.” That is what the Conservative Government continues to do.

   The Conservative Government has provided $4.1 billion towards international assistance that will increase to $4.4 billion in 2008/09. This government is committed to supporting Canada’s core values of freedom, democracy, the rule of law and human rights around the world. Canada is providing families and communities in developing countries with the means to lift themselves out of poverty and build a better life.

   Canada’s help has been requested by the democratically elected government of Afghanistan. Also keep in mind, Canada is in Afghanistan as part of the NATO-led, United Nations sanctioned, multinational, International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).

   On September 10th the Prime Minister announced that Canada will withdraw the bulk of its military forces in Afghanistan as scheduled in 2011. This should not be a surprise since the decision to help Afghanistan militarily until 2011 was a bi-partisan consensus of the House of Commons. It is not a Conservative mission or a Liberal mission – it in fact remains a Canadian mission that is supported by the majority of the elected representatives of the Canadian people

   By 2011, we will have been in Kandahar, which is probably the toughest province in the country, for six years. After six years, the government of Afghanistan has to be to be able to carry the lion’s share of responsibility for its own security. As of 2011, the mission, as we’ve known it, the Conservative Government intends to end. Obviously Canada would aid in some technical capacities, but no longer take the lead.

   There is still a lot of work to do to continue helping the people of Afghanistan with the “3 Ds”.

   Defence,
   Development,
   and Dipolomacy.

   The realistic objective remains to build up the Afghan forces so they can manage their own security situation. This is what we have been doing and what we will continue to do.

   Let us NEVER forget that our security is tied to Afghanistan’s development. We all know the background. On Sept. 11, 2001, twenty-four Canadians died in the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center. Those terrorists were using Afghanistan as their base of operations due to its lack of security and development. We do not want this to happen again. And we cannot abandon these people. Secretary – General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-Moon, said in a Globe and Mail column: “Afghanistan is a potent symbol of the costs inherent in abandoning nations to the lawless forces of anarchy. That alone justifies international efforts to help rebuild the country. Lest there be any doubt, remember Sept. 11, 2001, and its worldwide reverberations. We learned then how a country, shorn of its civic institutions, becomes a vacuum to be filled by criminals and opportunists. In its chaos and poverty, Afghanistan became a home base for terrorism.” (Globe and Mail online, Being in Afghanistan is dangerous, not being in Afghanistan is more dangerous, January 24, 2008)

   Lynne read the following letter from an Afghani citizen into the House of Commons record. It was published in our Canadian papers at the time of the debate on extension of the Afghanistan mission.

   Letter from Dr. Bashir Ahmad, medical intern, pleading for help: “Afghanistan is my home. And it’s a bitter reality to me, but we need external assistance to keep our country peaceful. People here are worried about rumours that international forces are planning to leave Afghanistan. If international forces leave, the future for us Afghans will go as well. There is hope in Afghanistan, but the hope depends on how strong the international commitment is. The involvement of international community, including Canada, means more peace and security here. Will the rest of the world be safe if Afghanistan is left in the hands of destructive forces? Our enemies do not recognize borders; if they win in Afghanistan, they will turn it into a base to attack the rest of the world. So continued international commitment in Afghanistan is something that must be done for the sake of a more secure and peaceful world. (National Post, Afghan pleads for Canadian help, March 4, 2008)

   This spring Lynne and other Parliamentarians met with women political representatives from Afghanistan. This was a very rewarding experience for all involved. Under the Taliban human rights abuses for women were common place. Women were forbidden access:

   to basic health care,
   to work outside their homes,
   to go to school or university,
   to leave their homes without a close male relative,
   and fair trials.

   Public stonings were common place for minor infractions like flying a kite or laughing.

   Progress has been made in all the important areas.

   Since the fall of the Taliban, significant progress has been made for Afghan women.

   · They now have the right to vote in elections. Approximately 40% of the voters in the last election were women!

   · Over 25% of the Afghan parliament consists of women and over 4.8 million children now attend school, 1/3 being girls.

   · Also, micro-financing under the Microfinance Investment Support Facility for Afghanistan is a program where Canada is the lead donor, providing 40% of funding.

   Secretary – General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-Moon, explained the practical progress that has been made to date in Afghanistan: “New roads are helping farmers get produce to markets.. Afghan farmers are meeting 95 per cent of the country’s grain needs; in 2001, the figure was less than 50 per cent. The Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission, created following the 2001 Bonn Agreement, now has nine provincial offices, actively promoting human rights. Under the Taliban, women’s participation in public and political life was non-existent. Today, 28 per cent of the seats in parliament are held by women.” (Globe and Mail online, Being in Afghanistan is dangerous, not being in Afghanistan is more dangerous, January 24, 2008)

   A safer and more secure Afghanistan is a safer and more secure Canada.

   Sincerely,

   Janet Krayden

   Assistant for the Lynne Yelich Campaign

   —–Original Message—–

   Sent: Wednesday, October 01, 2008 9:37 PM
   To: lynneyelich@sasktel.net
   Subject: I’m voting for the peace and human rights

   Ms Lynne Yelich
   Conservative - Blackstrap

   Dear Candidate,

   I am concerned that Canada’s military role in Afghanistan and Canada’s
   international efforts for peace, development, and human rights have not been
   discussed thoroughly during the election campaign.

   How do you and your party propose that Canada help end the war in
   Afghanistan?

   Will you and your party commit to re-establishing Canada’s traditional
   support for international human rights and for the United Nations? What are
   your priorities?

   I look forward to your response before election day.

   Sincerely,

2. Patrick Clarke Says:
   October 14th, 2008 at 1:22 pm

   NDP is the only party to firmly state they will pull out military units and replace them with U.N. sanctioned peace-keeping forces.

   The Liberals say they want to continue the Peaceful legacy Canadians have created but give no real positions or a declarance of military departure.

   The Greens also say they want peacekeeping to be the forefront of what we do there and I also was interested by the mentioning of turning poppies into medical supplies (as optimistic as it is I still think heroin will still be created either way, the poppie growers will just have a bulletproof guise to grow poppies then)
   although the Green Party never really had a declarance of military departure instead they wanted to “take on the taliban” not involving negotiation but force. Not what I wanted to hear.

   NDP by far are the truest and have the most histroical commitment to peace.
   __________________________________
   LETTERS:

   Liberal Candidate:
   Dear Patrick,

   Thank you for your question on the Canadian mission in Afghanistan.

   I support the ending of the Canadian Mission in two phases: ending the
   “war-fighting” role in Kandahar by 2009, and withdrawal of troops
   completely by July 2011.

   I believe the NATO mission has not been properly mandated. The
   international community missed an opportunity to stabilize the economy
   before the dependence on the Opium trade re-asserted itself. The opium
   trade is currently 60% of GDP, giving resources for the current renewed
   security problems and instability to the country as a whole.

   My view is that Canada has already contributed very significantly to the
   short-term security of Afghans, at a significant cost in terms of lives
   and resources, and can withdraw with honour.

   In the future Canada needs to take a leading role in defining different
   forms of international intervention in the face of terrorist or other
   security threats, so that they are more consistent with Canadian values
   and principles.

   The Liberal Party remains committed to helping the people of Afghanistan
   as they work to build a stable, secure, and democratic country. I note
   Afghans enjoyed a version of this for 40 peaceful years before 1974 and
   there are opportunities to assist in non-military ways.

   Again, thank you for your question, and I ask for your support on Tuesday.

   Sincerely,

   Gerard Kennedy
   __________________________________

   Green Candidate: Hi,

   Thanks for writing.

   The Green Party, and I personally, are against further continuation in the
   war in Afghanistan. We were against Canada’s combat participation there
   from the beginning and seek to end it as soon as possible.

   Considering we are there in a combat role already, certain considerations
   and care have to be taken in order to facilitate our exit in a way which is
   least harmful to Afghanis and our soldiers, but we would work to make that
   exit happen as quickly as possible.

   We seek peace in Afghanistan through discussion with all parties involved,
   and we seek to have Canada return to it’s previous and much-lauded role as
   one of the world’s great peacekeeping countries, a role we invented, and
   which is best suited to our means and national temperament.

   We have always stood for peace and human rights above all, and respect for
   the authority of the United Nations, and we continue to stand by those
   cornerstones of world peace and stability.

   VOTE NDP TODAY AND GET US OUT OF THIS MESS!

3. Peter Says:
   October 13th, 2008 at 11:48 pm

   The following from the local Liberal candidate (the only respondent) who is in a tight three way race with the Conservative and the NDP candidates:

   Thank you for your email regarding Canada’s role in the world.

   I have seen Canada lose its independent, principled voice in the world, and retreat on the world stage under this Conservative government. I believe that Canadians deserve better.

   Canada’s capacity to shape the international agenda is clearly linked to the level of our engagement in world affairs. We have more influence in organizations like the United Nations and NATO when we speak to our deepest values: democracy, pluralism, religious tolerance, human rights, and the protection of civilians.

   Our Liberal team has a desire to see Canada become the strong leader it once was on issues of international justice and human rights, and will continue to fight for this.

   On Canada’s role in the world and specifically our role in Afghanistan, I encourage you to look at the foreign affairs part of our platform and my recent articles on Afghanistan, which I have attached for your interest.

   Best wishes,
   Dr. Keith Martin

4. Ecenith Le Vae Says:
   October 13th, 2008 at 10:01 pm

   Here are my responses, two from the NDP (one from my local candidate and one from Jack Layton) and one from the Green Party.
   ——————————————
   1. Phillip Stone local candidate for the Green Party, letter dated Oct 3, 2008

   “Dear Future Constituent,
   Your concerns about Canada’s military role in Afghanistan and Canada’s international efforts for peace, development, and human rights are shared by myself and the Green Party of Canada.

   In the six all-candidates meetings to date in this current election campaign I have spoken clearly on the Green Party’s position on this matter - which is to redefine our mission in Afghanistan, and in any other conflicts we may be called upon to participate in, by withdrawing from a combat oriented NATO led mission and shift our focus and role to UN led peacekeeping missions.

   Canada must return to our role on the international stage as champions of human rights and peacemakers a tradition we once enjoyed and were admired for. The Green Party of Canada and I are committed to that vision so we can be global partners in expanding human rights and fostering peace worldwide. This will help restore our national pride that the Harper government have so steadily been eroding and contribute greatly to our domestic security.

   Sincerely
   Philip Stone”
   ——————————————-

   2. Catherine Bell (NDP Vancouver Island) letter Oct 11, 2008
   “Dear Ecenith,
   Thank you for your email regarding peace, human rights, the war in Afghanistan and ending the torture of Guantanamo Bay prisoners. Sorry for the delay in responding; the campaign trail has kept me on the road a great deal, and I’ve been receiving hundreds of e-mails.

   The NDP caucus in Ottawa has been clear and consistent in our policy with regard to the war in Afghanistan. The excerpt from our Platform related to how we would end Canada’s participation is pasted below:
   The War and Combat Mission in Afghanistan (p.43)

   Jack Layton and the New Democrats will:
   Ø Withdraw all Canadian forces from the Afghanistan combat mission, with reasonable advance notice and in consultation with our allies.

   Ø Ensure that Canada delivers on the aid and development assistance commitment made through the Afghanistan Compact.

   Ø Ensure that women and human rights groups in Afghanistan can access Canadian development dollars, and that corruption at all levels of government is addressed effectively.

   Ø Ensure that the United Nations, not NATO or the US, becomes the lead organization in the provision of security and development assistance in Afghanistan.

   Ø Explore and promote opportunities for negotiating peace at the national, regional and international levels, in line with proposals made by the President of Afghanistan and leading security experts.

   Regarding Canada’s failure to come to the assistance of Omar Khadar, who has been held in Guantanamo Bay, my NDP caucus colleagues and I have been very clear in our condemnation of the Conservative government’s performance. All other foreign nationals held in Guantanamo since 9/11 have been released. There is no excuse for this poor man to be kept in jail in Cuba. You have my commitment to continue to call for his release.
   Regarding your other questions, I quote again from the NDP platform:

   Canada: Global Leadership in Peace and Justice Promoting Peace, Defending Canada (p.42)

   Canada’s military has a proud history, built on the principles of defending human rights and promoting peace. New Democrats believe there are three main priorities for the Canadian military today and in the years to come:

   1. Assist people facing natural catastrophes, including floods, earthquakes, forest fires and other emergencies, both at home and abroad.

   2. Provide support for peace-making, peace-building and peacekeeping around the world.

   3. Defend Canada from potential attack.

   The Canadian Forces must be properly staffed, equipped and trained to effectively cover the full range of possible military operations arising from these three priorities. Jack Layton and the New Democrats will: Equip the Canadian military to resume leadership in United Nations peacekeeping operations, with major new missions reviewed and approved by the House of Commons.

   Canada’s Role in the World (p.44)

   Jack Layton and the New Democrats will:

   Ø Provide robust support to the United Nations and its work in conflict resolution, peacekeeping, and global cooperation.

   Ø Re-establish Canada as a leader for global peace and disarmament by renewing efforts to stop the proliferation of nuclear weapons, ban cluster bombs, and control trade in small arms and light weapons.

   Fighting Global Poverty (p.44)

   Jack Layton and the New Democrats will:

   Ø Work to ensure that Canada does its part to achieve the Millennium Development Goals, including our commitment to meet the foreign aid target of 0.7% of gross national income within ten years, in keeping with the Make Poverty History campaign.

   Ø Accelerate and broaden Canada’s pledges to forgive the debt of the world’s poorest countries.

   Ø Ensure that the concerns of developing countries are addressed in international trade negotiations.

   Ø Ensure Canadian development assistance focuses on poverty alleviation and that priorities are determined in collaboration with those living in poverty and their legitimate representatives.

   Ø Channel aid through local civil society groups whenever possible.

   Ø Implement the Pledge to Africa legislation immediately to send generic, affordable drugs to developing countries and support the fight against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria.

   Ø Triple Canada’s contribution to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

   Human Rights and a Democratic Global System (p.45)

   Jack Layton and the New Democrats will:

   Ø Immediately ratify the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. We will reverse the Conservative and Liberal governments’ refusal to sign the Declaration. We will ensure its provisions are properly respected in Canada and incorporated into Canadian law.

   Ø Continue the strong New Democrat leadership for policies that prevent the abuse of any individual taken into the custody of the Canadian Forces abroad, for example in Afghanistan, regardless of whether that individual remains in Canadian custody or is transferred to the custody of another country.

   Ø Ensure that Canadian companies abide by international human rights law and environmental standards when operating overseas, and develop and enforce sanctions if they do not.

   Ø Work with international partners to create a United Nations agency to promote and support women’s equality throughout the world.

   Ø Ratify the UN Optional Protocol on Torture.

   Ø Fight against impunity for all those who commit war crimes and crimes against humanity through support for the International Criminal Court, and through an increased commitment to using the 2000 War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity Act to prosecute alleged perpetrators in Canada.

   We have calculated that the peace dividend from withdrawal from Afghanistan will add $600 million to our spending ability in 2009/10 and $1.1 billion in both 2010/11 and 2012/13. This is money that would instead be invested in helping Canadian families make ends meet and keeping our international commitments to end poverty in the world. Don’t let anyone tell you it can’t be done.

   I hope that I have answered your questions. For more details about our platform, visit http://www.ndp.ca
   Sincerely,
   Catherine Bell
   New Democrat candidate,
   Vancouver Island North
   http://www.catherinebell.ndp.ca
   ————————————–
   3. Jack Layton NDP letter Oct 10,2008
   Thank you for your past email to our office. As Election Day draws near, we are providing you with this email to keep you informed of our efforts.

   In this election, Canada’s New Democrats have put before the people of Canada commitments of hope and opportunity for you, your family, your friends, and neighbours. It is about a future where you come first.

   Highlights from Jack Layton and his team of New Democrats’ plan include:

   - Training substantially more health care professionals to ease staffing shortages and cut wait times.
   - Prohibiting the use of federal funding to support any form of parallel, private for-profit service delivery.
   - Creating a pan-Canadian programs for home care and prescription drugs
   - Making big polluters pay by putting a price on carbon through a “cap-and-trade” carbon pricing system.
   - Implementing Jack Layton’s $3 billion Green-Collar Jobs Plan, including a fund for training. We will invest $750 million into this fund every year.
   - Introducing new financial incentives for clean power, including from solar, wind, water, biomass and other renewable sources for electricity production and from industrial co-generation and small-scale, sustainable community facilities.
   - Reinstituting a pan-Canadian affordable housing program that builds towards the 10-year goal of the One Percent Solution - with one percent of federal spending allocated for truly affordable housing.
   - Simplifying and unifying the myriad of child benefit programs to ensure that those most in need gets greatest help. This includes covering children up to 18 and ensuring that the income from the new benefit will not be subject to federal tax.
   - Establishing and adequately funding a Canada-wide child care and early learning program creating 150,000 new child care spaces in the first year, growing to 220,000 spaces per year in the fourth year.
   - Bringing all consumer-related federal agencies under one roof by naming a Minister specifically responsible for consumer affairs. Canadians deserve a Minister devoted to protecting their interests.
   - Addressing the growing infrastructure deficit, and help cities and citizens avoid massive property tax increases, by increasing investment in public transit; immigrant settlement; roads, highways and border crossings; public libraries; community centres; sewer and water treatment facilities.
   - Restoring a uniform 22.12% tax rate for large corporations - what it was before the Martin and Harper governments’ implemented unproductive corporate tax breaks.

   We are committed to balanced budgets each and every year. Our full platform of commitments, with costing, can be found by visiting: http://www.ndp.ca/platform. Feel free to pass along our email.

   Again, we appreciate your desire for a better Canada. Together, we can make it happen by voting for Jack Layton and his team of New Democrats on October 14th!
   Sincerely,
   Jack Layton and Canada’s New Democrats

   Jack Layton’s New Democrats
   Putting you and your family first.
   Jack Layton et le NPD
   Mettre vos priorités et celles de votre famille au premier plan.

5. Joseph Raglione Says:
   October 13th, 2008 at 6:47 pm

   Gentle Friends:
   A Gun is not a a Plowshare. Guns kill and soldiers carrying Guns kill. History continues to prove how the attempt to dominate through the use of force is futile, infantile and dangerous. War is good for nothing! It wastes precious lives and both time and money. If war mongering politicians want trouble than I suggest we place them on an Island without Guns. We will provide them with seeds and plowshares and lets see what happens?

6. Did You Know Says:
   October 13th, 2008 at 6:30 pm

   Who Profits from War
   http://rainbowwarrior2005.wordpress.com/2008/10/12/who-profits-from-war/
   This would be one of the reasons war is still raging on. It is because of profits. The Carlyle group also profits greatly. To understand the profiteers is understand why war is popular. They will do anything to keep a war raging on. They really don’t care who dies.

   War “Pollution” Equals Millions of Deaths
   http://rainbowwarrior2005.wordpress.com/2008/10/09/war-pollution-equals-millions-of-deaths/
   This of course is a real problem. With all the bomb testing and the continued use of Depleted Uranium they are in fact killing the planet.
   As for the War in Afghanistan well they had absolutely no real evidence Bin Laden was behind it. The Caspian Sea holds some 50 billion gallons of oil, tempting foreign intervention in the Balkans. The US also wanted a pipeline in Afghanistan as well. The Teliban of course was not wanting to do business with the US. The US of course doesn’t like that. The US could care less about human rights they are just after the oil and pipeline. It’s the same with Iraq it was for the oil pure and simple. 151 plus white house members of government have share in companies the are used by the gov. to supply the US with weapons etc .Keeping the wars going is in their best interest” profit” wise. To stop the war you have to kill the profit making War machine
   Would they pull a 9/11 yes. The plan for that was created in about 1974 in the US.
   They wanted J F Kennedy to do the same sort of false flag type thing so their would be reason to go to war with Cuba. Kennedy refused to kill his own people. Of course the war machine profiteers were anything but happy and he also wanted to eliminate the Federal Reserve. Those would be the actual reason he was assassinated. Between the Carlyle Group(George Bush SR) and the White House investors many who are just retched creatures, like Dick Cheny who is making a fortune stopping war is going to take some doing. They are criminals for sure.
   When the US keeps doing things like this one knows for sure they are deliberately starting wars.
   http://rainbowwarrior2005.wordpress.com/2008/10/13/us-deliberately-causing-hostility-in-pakistan/

7. Brenda J Nichol Says:
   October 13th, 2008 at 3:56 pm

   From: Darryl Whetter
   Date: 10/1/2008 5:54:02 PM
   To: bjnichol@eastlink.ca
   Subject: Re: [SPAM] I’m voting for the peace and human rights

   Dear Brenda,

   I have always opposed Canada’s immoral, misguided and unwinnable
   mission in Afghanistan. When the Liberals took us there and joined
   the Conservatives in keeping us there, I knew it was wrong.

   I stated my opposition–and my support for an international medical
   aid program Poppies For Medicine–in a Chronicle Herald article early
   in the campaign. I agree with that article’s reference to election
   apathy over this misguided military action: “the $22-billion non-
   issue.” The Liberal-Conservative mission in Afghanistan should inform
   our national headlines, not how Leader A criticizes Leader B.

   For the Green Party policy on our withdrawal from Afghan. and our
   support for Poppies for Medicine, please see:

   http://www.greenparty.ca/en/policy/visiongreen/partfive#_Toc180047658

   Hoping to win your vote,

   Darryl Whetter
   http://darrylwhetter.greenparty.ca

8. John McKenzie Says:
   October 13th, 2008 at 3:53 pm

   Thank you for your information on the very large costs involved in maintaining our troops in Afghanistan.While I have great sympathy for the troops and their families I believe that attempts to win militarily in Afghanistan will never succeed. Only diplomacy has a chance. Let’s work at it!

9. Anonymous Says:
   October 13th, 2008 at 3:45 pm

   From Deb Meredith, Vancouver Quadra
   Our government is deeply committed to human rights here and abroad.

   We are among the top 3 donors aiding Darfur.

   Our Prime Minister met with the Dalai Lama and we conferred honorary citizenship on Aung San Suun Kyi.

   Our Prime Minister has apologized for the head tax on Chinese immigrants and urged the government of Japan to give redress to comfort women, and apologized for residential schools.

   We are in Afghanistan because human rights are the issue.

   We are there as part of a UN force and at the request of the democratically elected government of Afghanistan.

   The mission will end at the end of 2011.

   Deborah

10. Elspeth Dowell Says:
    October 13th, 2008 at 2:17 pm

    elspeth-dowell@sympatico.ca
    Free Newsletters

    Reply | Reply All | Forward | Delete | Junk | Put in Folder | Print View | Save Address

    Inbox
    Sent Messages
    Drafts
    Trash Can
    My saved e…
    Report Junk E-Mail
    Report and Block Sender

    From :
    Sent : October 3, 2008 4:17:01 PM
    To :
    Subject : Re: I’m voting for the peace and human rights

    | | | Inbox

    Dear Elspeth,

    Thank you very much for taking the time to write to us. First of all, I
    would like to apologize for the delay in writing back. The amount of
    emails and phone calls we’re receiving is nothing short of astounding.

    I totally understand your concerns about Canada’s presence in Afghanistan.
    As a very proud Canadian, I’ve always seen Canada’s peaceful leadership
    role as an integral part of our identity in the world. Having traveled a
    little bit last summer, I’m glad to see that our passport is still always
    welcome with a smile in countries around the world.

    Hearing about the deaths of Canadian soldiers on the news is never easy.
    Nor will I in ANY way try to minimize the pain that their families (old
    and young) are going through. I myself have a friend in the Armed Forces
    who was in Afghanistan last year, and will be returning shortly for
    another mission. I am extremely proud of his efforts to restore peace and
    help the reconstruction of this country, that saw war for decades.

    It was at the express request of the United Nations that Canada (under the
    previous Liberal government) deployed troops there in 2002. The mission,
    that is under NATO command, is a noble one. It is unquestionable that
    humanitarian aid is required, but without adequate security in the region,
    such aid would be impossible.

    Of course, the mission can’t go on forever. The Afghan people will have
    to take control, and our troops will come home in 2011. Mr. Harper made
    it clear that this is a non-negotiable withdrawal date.

    In the meantime, what breaks my heart is that unfortunately, in the media,
    we never hear about all the tremendous work they have accomplished since
    the mission began. To name a few things:

    -In 2001, less than 8% of the Afghan population had access to basic health
    services. Today, 83% does;

    -The rate of child mortality has decreased more than 22%;

    -In 2001, only 700 000 children went to school (all of which were boys);
    today, over 6 million Afghan children go to school (1/3 of which are
    girls). Education of the young is absolutely essential in ensuring
    lasting peace;

    -Since the mission began, tens of thousands of landmines were destroyed.
    In Kandahar alone, a surface area of 500 000 square meters was de-mined;

    -The Canadian army helped build reservoirs, hand pumps, wells and
    irrigation canals to improve access to water.

    As for the issue of Omar Khadr, there is little than I can say, since his
    legal proceedings are still pending before the American authorities. We
    must not forget that he faces extremely serious charges (the killing of an
    American solider with a grenade during a fire-fight). The Government of
    Canada received assurances that he is treated in a humane fashion.
    Furthermore, representatives of the Department of Foreign Affairs visited
    him on several occasions, and they will continue to do so.

    I hope this answers your questions. Thanks again for taking the time to
    write.

    Please remember to vote on October 14th. It is one of our most
    fundamental democratic rights, as Canadians.

    Have a great day

    Sincerely,

    Dennis Galiatsatos

    >
    > Mr Dennis Galiatsatos
    > Conservative - Saint-Laurent-Cartierville

    Hotmail
    Today Mail Calendar Contacts
    Options | Help

    elspeth-dowell@sympatico.ca
    Free Newsletters

    Reply | Reply All | Forward | Delete | Junk | Put in Folder | Print View | Save Address

    Inbox
    Sent Messages
    Drafts
    Trash Can
    My saved e…
    Report Junk E-Mail
    Report and Block Sender

    From :
    Sent : October 3, 2008 4:17:01 PM
    To :
    Subject : Re: I’m voting for the peace and human rights

    | | | Inbox

    Dear Elspeth,

    Thank you very much for taking the time to write to us. First of all, I
    would like to apologize for the delay in writing back. The amount of
    emails and phone calls we’re receiving is nothing short of astounding.

    I totally understand your concerns about Canada’s presence in Afghanistan.
    As a very proud Canadian, I’ve always seen Canada’s peaceful leadership
    role as an integral part of our identity in the world. Having traveled a
    little bit last summer, I’m glad to see that our passport is still always
    welcome with a smile in countries around the world.

    Hearing about the deaths of Canadian soldiers on the news is never easy.
    Nor will I in ANY way try to minimize the pain that their families (old
    and young) are going through. I myself have a friend in the Armed Forces
    who was in Afghanistan last year, and will be returning shortly for
    another mission. I am extremely proud of his efforts to restore peace and
    help the reconstruction of this country, that saw war for decades.

    It was at the express request of the United Nations that Canada (under the
    previous Liberal government) deployed troops there in 2002. The mission,
    that is under NATO command, is a noble one. It is unquestionable that
    humanitarian aid is required, but without adequate security in the region,
    such aid would be impossible.

    Of course, the mission can’t go on forever. The Afghan people will have
    to take control, and our troops will come home in 2011. Mr. Harper made
    it clear that this is a non-negotiable withdrawal date.

    In the meantime, what breaks my heart is that unfortunately, in the media,
    we never hear about all the tremendous work they have accomplished since
    the mission began. To name a few things:

    -In 2001, less than 8% of the Afghan population had access to basic health
    services. Today, 83% does;

    -The rate of child mortality has decreased more than 22%;

    -In 2001, only 700 000 children went to school (all of which were boys);
    today, over 6 million Afghan children go to school (1/3 of which are
    girls). Education of the young is absolutely essential in ensuring
    lasting peace;

    -Since the mission began, tens of thousands of landmines were destroyed.
    In Kandahar alone, a surface area of 500 000 square meters was de-mined;

    -The Canadian army helped build reservoirs, hand pumps, wells and
    irrigation canals to improve access to water.

    As for the issue of Omar Khadr, there is little than I can say, since his
    legal proceedings are still pending before the American authorities. We
    must not forget that he faces extremely serious charges (the killing of an
    American solider with a grenade during a fire-fight). The Government of
    Canada received assurances that he is treated in a humane fashion.
    Furthermore, representatives of the Department of Foreign Affairs visited
    him on several occasions, and they will continue to do so.

    I hope this answers your questions. Thanks again for taking the time to
    write.

    Please remember to vote on October 14th. It is one of our most
    fundamental democratic rights, as Canadians.

    Have a great day

    Sincerely,

    Dennis Galiatsatos

    >
    > Mr Dennis Galiatsatos
    > Conservative - Saint-Laurent-Cartierville

    Hotmail
    Today Mail Calendar Contacts
    Options | Help

    elspeth-dowell@sympatico.ca
    Free Newsletters

    Reply | Reply All | Forward | Delete | Junk | Put in Folder | Print View | Save Address

    Inbox
    Sent Messages
    Drafts
    Trash Can
    My saved e…
    Report Junk E-Mail
    Report and Block Sender

    From :
    Sent : October 3, 2008 4:17:01 PM
    To :
    Subject : Re: I’m voting for the peace and human rights

    | | | Inbox

    Dear Elspeth,

    Thank you very much for taking the time to write to us. First of all, I
    would like to apologize for the delay in writing back. The amount of
    emails and phone calls we’re receiving is nothing short of astounding.

    I totally understand your concerns about Canada’s presence in Afghanistan.
    As a very proud Canadian, I’ve always seen Canada’s peaceful leadership
    role as an integral part of our identity in the world. Having traveled a
    little bit last summer, I’m glad to see that our passport is still always
    welcome with a smile in countries around the world.

    Hearing about the deaths of Canadian soldiers on the news is never easy.
    Nor will I in ANY way try to minimize the pain that their families (old
    and young) are going through. I myself have a friend in the Armed Forces
    who was in Afghanistan last year, and will be returning shortly for
    another mission. I am extremely proud of his efforts to restore peace and
    help the reconstruction of this country, that saw war for decades.

    It was at the express request of the United Nations that Canada (under the
    previous Liberal government) deployed troops there in 2002. The mission,
    that is under NATO command, is a noble one. It is unquestionable that
    humanitarian aid is required, but without adequate security in the region,
    such aid would be impossible.

    Of course, the mission can’t go on forever. The Afghan people will have
    to take control, and our troops will come home in 2011. Mr. Harper made
    it clear that this is a non-negotiable withdrawal date.

    In the meantime, what breaks my heart is that unfortunately, in the media,
    we never hear about all the tremendous work they have accomplished since
    the mission began. To name a few things:

    -In 2001, less than 8% of the Afghan population had access to basic health
    services. Today, 83% does;

    -The rate of child mortality has decreased more than 22%;

    -In 2001, only 700 000 children went to school (all of which were boys);
    today, over 6 million Afghan children go to school (1/3 of which are
    girls). Education of the young is absolutely essential in ensuring
    lasting peace;

    -Since the mission began, tens of thousands of landmines were destroyed.
    In Kandahar alone, a surface area of 500 000 square meters was de-mined;

    -The Canadian army helped build reservoirs, hand pumps, wells and
    irrigation canals to improve access to water.

    As for the issue of Omar Khadr, there is little than I can say, since his
    legal proceedings are still pending before the American authorities. We
    must not forget that he faces extremely serious charges (the killing of an
    American solider with a grenade during a fire-fight). The Government of
    Canada received assurances that he is treated in a humane fashion.
    Furthermore, representatives of the Department of Foreign Affairs visited
    him on several occasions, and they will continue to do so.

    I hope this answers your questions. Thanks again for taking the time to
    write.

    Please remember to vote on October 14th. It is one of our most
    fundamental democratic rights, as Canadians.

    Have a great day

    Sincerely,

    Dennis Galiatsatos

    >
    > Mr Dennis Galiatsatos
    > Conservative - Saint-Laurent-Cartierville

    Hotmail
    Today Mail Calendar Contacts
    Options | Help

    elspeth-dowell@sympatico.ca
    Free Newsletters

    Reply | Reply All | Forward | Delete | Junk | Put in Folder | Print View | Save Address

    Inbox
    Sent Messages
    Drafts
    Trash Can
    My saved e…
    Report Junk E-Mail
    Report and Block Sender

    From :
    Sent : October 3, 2008 4:17:01 PM
    To :
    Subject : Re: I’m voting for the peace and human rights

    | | | Inbox

    Dear Elspeth,

    Thank you very much for taking the time to write to us. First of all, I
    would like to apologize for the delay in writing back. The amount of
    emails and phone calls we’re receiving is nothing short of astounding.

    I totally understand your concerns about Canada’s presence in Afghanistan.
    As a very proud Canadian, I’ve always seen Canada’s peaceful leadership
    role as an integral part of our identity in the world. Having traveled a
    little bit last summer, I’m glad to see that our passport is still always
    welcome with a smile in countries around the world.

    Hearing about the deaths of Canadian soldiers on the news is never easy.
    Nor will I in ANY way try to minimize the pain that their families (old
    and young) are going through. I myself have a friend in the Armed Forces
    who was in Afghanistan last year, and will be returning shortly for
    another mission. I am extremely proud of his efforts to restore peace and
    help the reconstruction of this country, that saw war for decades.

    It was at the express request of the United Nations that Canada (under the
    previous Liberal government) deployed troops there in 2002. The mission,
    that is under NATO command, is a noble one. It is unquestionable that
    humanitarian aid is required, but without adequate security in the region,
    such aid would be impossible.

    Of course, the mission can’t go on forever. The Afghan people will have
    to take control, and our troops will come home in 2011. Mr. Harper made
    it clear that this is a non-negotiable withdrawal date.

    In the meantime, what breaks my heart is that unfortunately, in the media,
    we never hear about all the tremendous work they have accomplished since
    the mission began. To name a few things:

    -In 2001, less than 8% of the Afghan population had access to basic health
    services. Today, 83% does;

    -The rate of child mortality has decreased more than 22%;

    -In 2001, only 700 000 children went to school (all of which were boys);
    today, over 6 million Afghan children go to school (1/3 of which are
    girls). Education of the young is absolutely essential in ensuring
    lasting peace;

    -Since the mission began, tens of thousands of landmines were destroyed.
    In Kandahar alone, a surface area of 500 000 square meters was de-mined;

    -The Canadian army helped build reservoirs, hand pumps, wells and
    irrigation canals to improve access to water.

    As for the issue of Omar Khadr, there is little than I can say, since his
    legal proceedings are still pending before the American authorities. We
    must not forget that he faces extremely serious charges (the killing of an
    American solider with a grenade during a fire-fight). The Government of
    Canada received assurances that he is treated in a humane fashion.
    Furthermore, representatives of the Department of Foreign Affairs visited
    him on several occasions, and they will continue to do so.

    I hope this answers your questions. Thanks again for taking the time to
    write.

    Please remember to vote on October 14th. It is one of our most
    fundamental democratic rights, as Canadians.

    Have a great day

    Sincerely,

    Dennis Galiatsatos

    >
    > Mr Dennis Galiatsatos
    > Conservative - Saint-Laurent-Cartierville

    Hotmail
    Today Mail Calendar Contacts
    Options | Help

    elspeth-dowell@sympatico.ca
    Free Newsletters

    Reply | Reply All | Forward | Delete | Junk | Put in Folder | Print View | Save Address

    Inbox
    Sent Messages
    Drafts
    Trash Can
    My saved e…
    Report Junk E-Mail
    Report and Block Sender

    From :
    Sent : October 3, 2008 4:17:01 PM
    To :
    Subject : Re: I’m voting for the peace and human rights

    | | | Inbox

    Dear Elspeth,

    Thank you very much for taking the time to write to us. First of all, I
    would like to apologize for the delay in writing back. The amount of
    emails and phone calls we’re receiving is nothing short of astounding.

    I totally understand your concerns about Canada’s presence in Afghanistan.
    As a very proud Canadian, I’ve always seen Canada’s peaceful leadership
    role as an integral part of our identity in the world. Having traveled a
    little bit last summer, I’m glad to see that our passport is still always
    welcome with a smile in countries around the world.

    Hearing about the deaths of Canadian soldiers on the news is never easy.
    Nor will I in ANY way try to minimize the pain that their families (old
    and young) are going through. I myself have a friend in the Armed Forces
    who was in Afghanistan last year, and will be returning shortly for
    another mission. I am extremely proud of his efforts to restore peace and
    help the reconstruction of this country, that saw war for decades.

    It was at the express request of the United Nations that Canada (under the
    previous Liberal government) deployed troops there in 2002. The mission,
    that is under NATO command, is a noble one. It is unquestionable that
    humanitarian aid is required, but without adequate security in the region,
    such aid would be impossible.

    Of course, the mission can’t go on forever. The Afghan people will have
    to take control, and our troops will come home in 2011. Mr. Harper made
    it clear that this is a non-negotiable withdrawal date.

    In the meantime, what breaks my heart is that unfortunately, in the media,
    we never hear about all the tremendous work they have accomplished since
    the mission began. To name a few things:

    -In 2001, less than 8% of the Afghan population had access to basic health
    services. Today, 83% does;

    -The rate of child mortality has decreased more than 22%;

    -In 2001, only 700 000 children went to school (all of which were boys);
    today, over 6 million Afghan children go to school (1/3 of which are
    girls). Education of the young is absolutely essential in ensuring
    lasting peace;

    -Since the mission began, tens of thousands of landmines were destroyed.
    In Kandahar alone, a surface area of 500 000 square meters was de-mined;

    -The Canadian army helped build reservoirs, hand pumps, wells and
    irrigation canals to improve access to water.

    As for the issue of Omar Khadr, there is little than I can say, since his
    legal proceedings are still pending before the American authorities. We
    must not forget that he faces extremely serious charges (the killing of an
    American solider with a grenade during a fire-fight). The Government of
    Canada received assurances that he is treated in a humane fashion.
    Furthermore, representatives of the Department of Foreign Affairs visited
    him on several occasions, and they will continue to do so.

    I hope this answers your questions. Thanks again for taking the time to
    write.

    Please remember to vote on October 14th. It is one of our most
    fundamental democratic rights, as Canadians.

    Have a great day

    Sincerely,

    Dennis Galiatsatos

    >
    > Mr Dennis Galiatsatos
    > Conservative - Saint-Laurent-Cartierville

    v

11. Eric Says:
    October 13th, 2008 at 2:17 pm

    I recieved replies from theGreen Party and the NDP but not from any other party. I am not posting the replies because they are very similar to replys already posted

12. Elspeth Dowell Says:
    October 13th, 2008 at 2:14 pm

    From : Dion, Stéphane - M.P.
    Sent : October 3, 2008 10:02:34 PM
    To :
    Subject : RE: I’m voting for the peace and human rights

    | | | Inbox

    Dear Elspeth Dowell,

    Thank you for your taking the time to write to the Hon. Stephane Dion during
    this exciting and historical time.

    This is the time to make a difference, and to make your voice heard. Together we
    can send a strong message, to Canada and the world about the kind of vision we
    have for our country, for today and future generations to come.

    Rest assured that your message has been noted and forwarded to the Liberal Party
    of Canada for review.

    Once again, we thank you for taking the time to write to us.

    Together, we can build a richer, fairer, and greener Canada.

    Sincerely,

    On behalf of the Hon. Stéphane Dion, P.C., M.P.

    Leader of the Official Opposition

    Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada

13. Phil Brown, NDP Candidate, Nepean-Carleton Says:
    October 13th, 2008 at 1:11 pm

    I completely endorse the positions taken by Jack Layton and the NDP with respect to peace and human rights issues. My personal decisions to run for the NDP in both 2004 and 2008 were motivated in large measure by my opposition to George’s Bush’s aggressive wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the militarization of space through so-called “missile defence”, and the erosion of civil liberties and international law in the name of the so-called “war on terror”. Guantanamo Bay, extra-judicial renditions and the prosecution of child soldier Omar Khadr tarnish the US reputation as a liberal democracy as well as all those other nations who fail to speak up against such abuses. In Canada, only the NDP has stood up forcefully to Stephen Harper in his slavish support of George Bush’s dangerous and indefensible policies.

14. Phyllis Reeve Says:
    October 13th, 2008 at 12:40 pm

    reply from Green candidate Christina Knighton.
    There was an attachment as indicated.
    I received no replies from the Conservative or Liberal candidates.
    Dear Phyllis Reeve,

    Thank you for your interest in Green Party policies and thank you also for
    your concerns around Canada’s military role in Afghanistan and Canada’s
    international efforts for peace, development, and human rights.

    Yes, the Green Party and myself are committed to re-establishing Canada’s
    traditional support for international human rights and for the United
    Nations. Priorities include beginning the process of withdrawing Canadian
    NATO Forces from Afghanisatn as soon as reasonably possible, not later than
    Feb. 2009 and seriously begin the process of becoming a Nation dedicated to
    peace-making and peace-keeping.

    Attached are excerpts from the VISION GREEN document that speak to the Green
    Party’s vision regarding Afghanistan and peace-making with point by point
    actions for our MPs.

    Christina

    ______________________

    Christina Knighton

    Nanaimo-Cowichan Candidate

    Green Party Canada

    250.751.5851

    http://www.votechristinaknighton.ca

15. Phyllis Reeve Says:
    October 13th, 2008 at 12:36 pm

    Message from NDP candidate Jean Crowder.
    Thank you to all of you for writing to inquire about a path to peace in Afghanistan. Most Canadians want to help the people of Afghanistan rebuild their lives for a peaceful future. But seven long years into George Bush’s counter-insurgent war, independent experts tell us conditions are getting worse, not better. Millions of Afghans can’t afford soaring food prices, and growing swaths of the southern countryside are too dangerous for aid workers to enter. According to the report that Stephen Harper commissioned: crime and corruption are up, the opium production that funds insurgents is up, and civilian casualties have doubled since 2005.

    While Canadian troops are serving admirably in southern Afghanistan, there are no military solutions there, only political ones. Yet Stephen Harper has committed this country to years more of the same—more combat under the umbrella of NATO, an organization with no track-record of state building. Military competence on the ground cannot compensate for political folly in Ottawa. It’s time for a Prime Minister committed to negotiated progress and stronger development efforts led by the United Nations.

    Stephen Harper can’t be trusted. He extended Canada’s combat role in Kandahar until at least December 2011—re-committing our uniformed women and men to a failed approach without taking any steps toward reaching the political solution that’s needed.
    He poured money into military operations at the expense of humanitarian efforts for everyday Afghans—spending nearly a dollar on combat for every dime invested in reconstruction and development.
    He ducked questions about detainee transfers and only stopped handing prisoners over to Afghan authorities after intense pressure from New Democrats and the general public over the record of torture.
    He repeatedly dismissed ordinary Canadians who questioned the combat mission’s wisdom or effectiveness—as unpatriotic or even supportive of terrorists.

    Jack Layton’s New Democrats say that it is time to end George Bush’s war. This election, the New Democrats have a plan to get back on a path to peace in Afghanistan. And Layton’s team has already led the way in Parliament.

    Alone in Parliament, tabled a formal motion calling for the safe and secure withdrawal of Canadian troops from the unbalanced, failing combat mission in Afghanistan.
    Alone in Parliament, called for peace negotiations to reach a political solution—alongside Afghan President Karzai, the Europeans, aid groups, and even former deputy foreign affairs minister Gordon Smith.
    Alone in Parliament, advocated for the United Nations—not NATO—as the appropriate body to coordinate international efforts to foster peace, security and development in Afghanistan.
    Repeatedly in Parliament, advocated for more humanitarian aid to support badly needed reconstruction in the most devastated regions of Afghanistan.
    Tabled legislation to ensure that prisoners in Canadian custody are never again transferred into situations where they could face torture—as some were in Afghanistan.
    The 2008 New Democrat Platform calls for the following actions:
    Withdraw all Canadian forces from the Afghanistan combat mission, with reasonable advance notice and in consultation with our allies.
    Ensure that Canada delivers on the aid and development assistance commitment made through the Afghanistan Compact.
    Ensure that women and human rights groups in Afghanistan can access Canadian development dollars, and that corruption at all levels of government is addressed effectively.
    Ensure that the United Nations, not NATO or the US, becomes the lead organization in the provision of security and development assistance in Afghanistan.
    Explore and promote opportunities for negotiating peace at the national, regional and international levels, in line with proposals made by the President of Afghanistan and leading security experts.
    Please don’t forget to vote on October 14.

    Best wishes,
    Jean Crowder Campaign

    Authorized and Paid For by the Agent for the Candidate

16. Ainslie Cogswell Says:
    October 13th, 2008 at 12:19 pm

    This is the response I recieved from my member of parliment about two hours after sending the email.

    Dear Ainslie,

    Thank you for taking the time to write and express your concerns about Canada’s military role in Afghanistan and Canada’s efforts for peace, development and human rights.

    The Liberal Party have been calling for a firm deadline to bring Canadian troops home from Afghanistan since February of 2007. On September 10, 2008, after refusing to set a clear exit deadline for more than two years while in government, Prime Minister Harper adopted the Liberal Party’s position and announced a firm deadline of 2011.

    Our presence in Afghanistan must go beyond an exclusively military focus and Canada must make commitments to development and diplomacy. The Liberal Party believes that reconstruction and development must be given an equal focus to the defence aspect of the current mission. Renewed commitment to development work in Afghanistan was one of the key recommendations contained in the Manley Panel recommendations.

    The Liberal Party of Canada is dedicated to supporting our troops in Afghanistan and supporting a mission which we hope will focus on training, security and reconstruction. Canada’s mission in Kandahar now has a firm end date. It will be our focus up to that date that peace and security is established in Afghanistan.

    Last September, for the first time in its history, Canada voted against an international human rights document at the United Nations. The Conservative government shamelessly voted against the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. One of the first acts a Liberal government would do would be to sign the document and re-establish Canada’s traditional support for international human rights.

    I appreciate your taking the time to contact me on these very serious issues. If you have any further questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me at my campaign office at 988-9390.

    Sincerely,

    Anita Neville, P.C., M.P.
    Winnipeg South Centre

17. T.Hunt Says:
    October 13th, 2008 at 12:18 pm

    No reply was received from any of the candidates in the West Vancouver, Sunshine Coast, Sea-to-Sky Country riding - not JOHN WESTON, Cons., Ian Sutherland, Lib, Bill Forst, NDP, or Blair Wilson, Green. WEston and Sutherland tend not to reply to emails critical of or questionning their stances on peace, environment and sustainability. Forst is new & has had little time to prepare in the riding. Wilson, when sitting in Parliament as a Liberal, was good at replying to constituents & was in favour of Canada resuming its more traditional peace-keeping role. Weston’s emphasis tends to be one of “slagging” his opponents and parroting his boss rather than having any real perspectives on key issues.

18. Steven Staples Says:
    October 13th, 2008 at 10:59 am

    Envoi par courriel

    Le 6 octobre 2008

    Steven Staples,
    Président,
    Institut Rideau,

    Monsieur,

    Vous trouverez, ci-joint, les réponses au questionnaire que vous nous avez fait parvenir dans le cadre du déclenchement des élections fédérales 2008.

    Nous espérons que les réponses fournies vous permettront de mieux comprendre notre action politique.

    Nous vous prions d’agréer l’expression de nos sentiments distingués.

    Dominic Labrie
    Cabinet du chef du Bloc Québécois
    3730, Crémazie Est, 4e étage
    Montréal (Québec)
    H2A 1B4

    Questions

    Défense et sécurité
    Il est de plus en plus clair qu’il n’y a pas de solution militaire à la guerre en Afghanistan. Ce mois-ci, le président Karzai a réitéré son désir de négocier des accords avec les Talibans.

    1a) S’il est élu, votre parti appuiera-t-il les efforts de négociation d’un accord de paix avec les Talibans du président Karzai?

    Le Bloc Québécois considère que l’Afghanistan est un pays souverain et qu’il doit choisir et assumer son destin. En ce sens, il ne revient pas au Canada à lui imposer une voie plus qu’une autre.

    Par contre, si le gouvernement Karzaï entreprend des négociations de paix avec les Talibans et qu’il réclame l’aide du Canada pour se faire, nous appuierons l’assistance du gouvernement canadien en la matière.

    Le Bloc Québécois a toujours prôné le respect du droit international et du multilatéralisme. Il est toujours préférable de régler des litiges et des conflits par la négociation que par l’effusion de sang.
    En 2008, les dépenses militaires du Canada dépassent 19 milliards de dollars par année. Ces dépenses étaient, en 2007-2008, 30 % plus élevées qu’avant le 11 septembre 2001, une hausse qui passera à 37 % dans deux ans. Avec ces hausses, le Canada est passé du 16e au 15e rang des pays dont les dépenses militaires sont les plus élevées.
    Malgré le fait que les dépenses militaires du Canada soient les plus élevées depuis la Seconde Guerre mondiale, le gouvernement a annoncé des plans impliquant des dépenses militaires de 490 milliards, notamment pour la guerre en Afghanistan.
    1b) Si votre parti est élu, limitera-t-il les hausses prévues dans les dépenses militaires au cours des quatre prochaines années?

    Le Bloc Québécois a toujours appuyé les initiatives qui visent à améliorer les conditions de vie des militaires et il ne s’oppose pas systématiquement aux achats militaires.

    Le projet conservateur implique des hausses budgétaires que nous ne souhaitons pas appuyer. À partir de 2008, le gouvernement conservateur s’est engagé à faire passer de 1,5 % à 2,0% le taux annuel d’augmentation du montant alloué à la Défense, à compter de l’année financière de 2011-2012. Le budget de la Défense nationale passera de 18 milliards $ en 2008-2009 à 30 milliards $ en 2027-2028. Au total, le gouvernement prévoit investir près de 490 milliards $ sur 20 ans. Cela nous semble beaucoup trop.

    Ainsi, le gouvernement se lance dans un investissement massif en Défense afin de se doter d’une armée à la George W. Bush. Nous ne croyons pas, contrairement aux Conservateurs, que le Canada doive posséder une armée capable de jouer tous les rôles. Aucune armée, à l’exception, peut-être, de celle des États-Unis, n’a les ressources pour exceller dans tous les domaines. Ce faisant, en ne privilégiant pas certaines missions bien précises pour les Forces armées, c’est un choix de médiocrité dans tous les secteurs qui est fait.

    Nous croyons qu’il faut tenir un large débat sur le rôle que le Canada veut confier à son armée et sur le type de forces armées qui peut le remplir. Des choix quant aux priorités doivent être faits. Quant à lui, le Bloc privilégie les opérations multilatérales de rétablissement et de maintien de la paix. Certains besoins sont là, mais des choix doivent être faits, après une consultation publique d’envergure.

    Malgré le fait que la majorité des Canadiens s’opposent à la possession et à l’utilisation d’armes nucléaires, le Canada s’éloigne tranquillement de sa position traditionnelle pour le désarmement nucléaire, à un moment où l’on note, à l’échelle mondiale, un accroissement important de la propension à utiliser des armes nucléaires. De plus, le Canada a donné priorité à ses intérêts comme membre de l’OTAN au détriment de ses obligations internationales à titre de signataire du Traité de non-prolifération des armes nucléaires.

    1c) Si votre parti est élu, travaillera-t-il avec nos alliés de l’OTAN pour que l’on passe d’une doctrine qui considère que les armes nucléaires sont des armes dissuasives nécessaires à une stratégie de dissuasion minimale, voire une abolition éventuelle de ces armes?

    Le Bloc Québécois fait sienne la déclaration du président de l’Agente Internationale de l’Énergie Atomique (AIEA), Mohammed El Baradeï, prix Nobel de la paix 2005, qui affirmait au printemps 2003 : « la seule façon de lutter efficacement contre la prolifération des armes nucléaires était de s’attaquer aux causes de l’insécurité qui pousse certains États à s’armer ».

    C’est pourquoi le Bloc Québécois appuie sans réserve toutes les initiatives qui permettent de réduire les armes nucléaires.

    Droits de la personne

    L’engagement du Canada en matière de droits de la personne est vacillant. De plus, le respect inégal de ses engagements internationaux en matière de droits de la personne n’a provoqué pratiquement aucuns débats au Parlement.

    2) Si votre parti est élu :

    - mettra-t-il en place une formation pour sensibiliser les fonctionnaires à la torture fondée sur de l’information objective sur les droits de la personne et non pas guidée par des considérations politiques?
    - renversera-t-il la décision précédente du gouvernement fédéral de ne pas demander automatiquement la clémence pour tous les Canadiens condamnés à mort dans un autre pays?
    - s’efforcera-t-il de rapatrier Omar Khadr (actuellement emprisonné à Guantanamo Bay) au Canada?
    - déposera-t-il une motion devant le Comité des affaires étrangères en vue de tenir des audiences sur le bilan récent du Canada en matière de droits internationaux de la personne?

    Nous sommes d’accord pour que le Canada mette en place une meilleure politique de sensibilisation quant à la torture. Pour le Bloc Québécois, rien ne justifie le recours à la torture. Nous dénoncerons dans les termes les plus durs toutes pratiques canadiennes qui utiliseraient à la torture. C’est sur cette base que nous sommes intervenus pour exiger du gouvernement fédéral qu’il respecte la Convention de Genève en suspendait le transfert de prisonnier afghans aux autorités afghanes; selon certaines allégations, les prisonniers transférés étaient torturés.

    Le Bloc Québécois a vertement déploré l’attitude du gouvernement conservateur qui a, coup sur coup, refusé d’intervenir auprès des États-Unis pour demander que la peine de mort d’un Canadien soit commuée en peine de prison à vie et décliné l’invitation qui lui était faite de supporter une résolution présentée à l’Assemblée générale des Nations-Unies demandant un moratoire sur ce châtiment cruel. Le Bloc Québécois ne cessera de dénoncer cette attitude honteuse du gouvernement canadien tant et aussi longtemps qu’il ne corrigera pas le tir.

    Soyez assuré que nous sommes en faveur du rapatriement d’Omar Kadhr au Canada. Omar Khadr n’avait que 15 ans au moment de son arrestation alors qu’il est reconnu, en droit international, que la détention des mineurs doit être une mesure de dernier ressort, qu’elle doit être la plus courte possible, et que leur cas doit être tranché le plus rapidement possible. Il est inadmissible que le Canada, qui a pourtant ratifié le protocole facultatif à la Convention relative aux droits de l’enfant en ce qui concerne l’implication d’enfants dans les conflits armés, n’ait pas encore levé le petit doigt pour le rapatrier. Tous les pays à l’exception du Canada ont rapatrié leurs ressortissants respectifs emprisonnés à Guantanamo. Le gouvernement canadien doit enfin se décider à agir afin qu’Omar Khadr soit jugé ici et qu’il ait droit à un traitement qui respecte la dignité humaine. D’ailleurs, le 19 mai 2008, le Bloc Québécois a lancé une pétition en faveur du rapatriement d’Omar Khadr afin qu’il soit remis à la justice canadienne immédiatement.

    Nous prenons bonne note de votre suggestion quant à une motion portant sur le bilan conservateur en matière de droits internationaux de la personne. Cette motion pourrait très bien se présenter au sous-comité des droits de la personne.

    Politique spatiale nationale

    La proposition récente de vendre MacDonald Dettwiler and Associates (MDA) à un fabricant d’armes étatsunien a fait ressortir les problèmes que rencontre le secteur spatial canadien, notamment l’absence de politique nationale cohérente en la matière.

    3) Si votre parti est élu :

    - travaillera-t-il avec tous les partis représentés au Parlement, dans le cadre d’audiences du Comité pour l’industrie, ainsi qu’avec les intervenants et les experts afin d’élaborer une politique spatiale nationale cohérente et à long terme pour le Canada?
    - s’assurera-t-il qu’une telle politique comprenne un engagement à consolider le Traité sur l’espace extra-atmosphérique et à prévenir la militarisation de l’espace?

    Dans le cas de la vente de MacDonald Dettwiler and Associates (MDA), le Bloc Québécois a appuyé la motion au Comité permanent de l’Industrie, des sciences et de la technologie qui demande au ministre de l’Industrie de maintenir sa décision et de ne pas permettre la vente des actifs aérospatiaux de cette compagnie canadienne à des intérêts états-uniens.

    En ce sens, le Bloc Québécois se dit ouvert à l’élaboration d’une politique spatiale afin de protéger les intérêts du Québec et du Canada.

    Soyez assuré que le Bloc Québécois s’opposera toujours à la militarisation de l’espace. C’est pour cette raison que nous nous étions opposés au projet de bouclier antimissile.

19. Zak Nicholls Says:
    October 13th, 2008 at 10:52 am

    I have been working with Andy Bruziewics, the NDP candidate for Sarnia-Lambton, for nearly two years. One of our goals is to create awareness in our community as to the true nature and cost of the current mission in Afghanistan. Andy has always voiced his concern that the current mission for Canadians in Afghanistan is wrong, it is a terrible change of direction from what had long been the Canadian tradition of participating in humanitarian missions. None of the other four candidates responded to my email. Three candidates, including the Conservative member Pat Davidson, are all on record for supporting the current mission as it stands.

20. jim reed Says:
    October 13th, 2008 at 9:28 am

    I wrote to all of the candidates in my riding asking about their views on Canada’s role in Afghanistan.

    The NDP candidate gave a detailed account of party policy including his own views…as did the Green candidate.

    The Liberal candidate outlined a vague policy of windin down Canada’s combat role and stepping up the effort at aid, reconstruction and training of Afghans.

    I never got a reply from the Conservative candidate.

21. Anonymous Says:
    October 12th, 2008 at 10:56 pm

    Dear Ali,

    Thank you for taking the time to express your concerns on these important matters.

    As you know, Canada has traditionally benefited from a good reputation as a peacekeeping nation and a human rights champion.

    This characteristic has always given us a great sense of pride.

    Unfortunately, under the Harper Conservative government we have seen a huge shift in this approach, which has been especially evident in Canada’s mission in Afghanistan.

    Under Harper, an imbalance exists in resources dedicated to fighting insurgents with not nearly enough resources dedicated to long-term development, diplomacy and peace-building.

    We believe that peace in Afghanistan will not be achieved by military means. Canada must play a leadership role in supporting a broad-based peace process that would include peace-building efforts at the local level.

    In regards to Human Rights, Canada must return to its traditional role. A Liberal government would do this immediately.

    The Harper government shamefully voted Against the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, marking the first time a Canadian government voted against an international human rights standard.

    Earlier this year, I introduced a Private Member’s Bill into the House of Commons to Implement the UN Declaration here in Canada. This bill has since been endorsed by all major Canadian human rights groups and national Aboriginal organizations, including the Assembly of First Nations and Amnesty International Canada, among others.

    The government’s inaction to combat Climate Change made Canada the laughing stock at the UN Climate Change Conference in Bali.

    Harper also failed to repatriate child-solider Omar Kadar from Guantanamo Bay; a prison that even Republican Presidential Candidate John McCain has said he would shut down.

    At the Security Council, Canada has had a seat more often than any other country except for the permanent members. Whenever Canada has asked for its place, it has been given a place. But the Prime Minister is not campaigning to continue our presence on the council and is effectively diminishing our effectiveness at the UN.

    This list unfortunately goes on.

    If and when re-elected I will continue to stand for peace and human rights, at home and abroad.

    I hope I can count on your support on October 14, Election Day.

    Thanks again.

    Sincerely,

    Tina Keeper

    Member of Parliament and Liberal Candidate for Churchill

22. Dave Burkhart Says:
    October 12th, 2008 at 4:35 pm

    Re: I’m voting for the peace and human rights

    Tuesday, October 7, 2008 7:00 PM

    From:
    “Dave Burkhart”

    —–Inline Attachment Follows—–

    Hello,

    New Democrats have consistently taken the position that Canada must exercise an immediate, safe and orderly withdrawal from combat operations in Afghanistan. Increasingly, top military officials are stepping forward and saying this war is unwinnable. Even the Prime Minister finally recognized the other day the futility of what we are doing in Afghanistan when he stated Canada would withdraw the bulk of our military forces in 2011. Still, he continues to put Canadian soldiers at risk in this futile war.

    There will be no military solution in Afghanistan. Diplomatic initiatives coupled with aid tied to improvements in human rights will have a far better chance of easing the suffering the people of that nation have endured over decades, indeed centuries, of war.

    For more of my opinion on this subject, please go to http://www.daveburkhart.ca and click the “Afghanistan” link under the heading “The issues:” in the menu on the left-hand side.

    I am frankly sickened by the direction the former Prime Minister has taken in squandering our record on the world stage as peacekeepers. And I am appalled by the Conservative government’s failure to support initiatives like aboriginal rights and the fundamental human right to water at the UN. We must reverse direction as a nation and begin to rebuild Canada’s reputation on the world stage.

    I am encouraged by what I see developing south of our border. Americans appear ready for a change of direction and I suspect Canadians too want a more progressive government. I know I do.

    One of my top priorities would be in ensuring Canada moves forward on our commitment to the world’s poor that we made before the UN in the mid 1970s and that a long litany of federal governments have neglected. New Democrats are committed to reaching 0.7% of our gross national income on foreign aid within 10 years. It is in the NDP platform at http://www.ndp.ca/xfer/campaign2008/Platform_2008_EN.pdf (Page 44) with funding support for the initiative itemized at http://www.ndp.ca/xfer/campaign2008/Explanatory_Tables-EN.pdf (Page 6)

    I invite you to review the NDP platform and look forward to answering any questions you might have on its contents.

    Dave

23. Doris Routliffe Says:
    October 12th, 2008 at 2:57 pm

    Heard from local NDP incumbent as well as local Green candidate. It appears, the Conservative candidates are being muzzled, i.e. do not reply nor show up at all-candidates meedings, and refuse to be interviewed!!!

24. Lauren Leighton Says:
    October 12th, 2008 at 2:52 pm

    Here is the reply I got from our conservative MP for life:

    On behalf of James Rajotte, Member of Parliament for Edmonton-Leduc, I would like to acknowledge receipt of your email and thank you for taking the time to share your concerns with him on this important issue.

    Please be assured that your correspondence will be brought to Mr. Rajotte’s attention at the earliest opportunity and that your views and suggestions will be carefully considered.

    Thank you again for contacting this office.

    Yours truly,

    Debbie Healy

    Office of James Rajotte, M.P.

    Edmonton-Leduc

25. André Laurion Says:
    October 12th, 2008 at 1:26 pm

    Here is the message from the NDP candidate in Tobique-Mactaquac:
    Thank you for your past email concerning Canada’s war and combat Mission in Afghanistan. As Election Day draws near, we are providing you with this email to keep you informed of our efforts.

    The commitments we are putting before the people of Canada in this election are about hope and opportunity for you, your family, your friends, and neighbours. They are about a future where you come first.

    Highlights from Jack Layton and his team of New Democrats’ plan include:

    - Withdrawing all Canadian forces from the Afghanistan combat mission, with reasonable advance notice and in consultation with our allies.
    - Ensuring that Canada delivers on the aid and development assistance commitment made through the Afghanistan Compact.
    - Ensuring that women and human rights groups in Afghanistan can access Canadian development dollars and that corruption at all levels of government is addressed effectively.
    - Ensuring that the United Nations, not NATO or the US, becomes the lead organization in the provision of security and development assistance in Afghanistan.
    - Exploring and promote opportunities for negotiating peace at the national, regional and international levels, in line with proposals made by the President of Afghanistan and leading security experts.

    We are committed to balanced budgets each and every year. Our full platform of commitments, with costing, can be found by visiting: http://www.ndp.ca/platform. Feel free to pass along our email to anyone who may be interested.

    Again, we appreciate your comments and thoughts. Together, we can make it happen by voting for Jack Layton and his team of New Democrats on October 14th!

    Sincerely,

    Jack Layton and Canada’s New Democrats

    Jack Layton’s New Democrats
    Putting you and your family first.
    Jack Layton et le NPD
    Mettre vos priorités et celles de votre famille au premier plan.

26. Eric Says:
    October 12th, 2008 at 12:51 pm

    Mr. X,

    Thanks for your e-mail to John Livingstone, your Green Party candidate for Hamilton Centre.

    The Green Party presents an alternative voice that is needed in
    Canada when it comes to peace and human rights. Ours is one that takes a collective view of problems and seeks collective solutions. We are committed to addressing the root cause of problems and violent conflict in the world.

    In particular, the Green Party is committed to the process of peace building and peacekeeping and seeks to make that the focus of our military efforts. The Green Party believes in collective responsibility with individuals, business, and government working together.

    In this vein, our policy is to stay involved in Afghanistan (for now), but for it to be under the UN rather than US/NATO. Also, Canadians must be moved to pacified areas instead of fighting insurgencies. Instead, a far more multinational contingent of troops are required to be brought in to replace ours. The concern is that if we “cut and run” at this stage, so to speak, it would not be in the overall interest of peace in the region.

    If you have any additional questions or would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

    Best Regards,
    Hamish Campbell
    Policy Advisor
    GPC - Hamilton Centre

27. Eric Says:
    October 12th, 2008 at 12:49 pm

    Thank you for your past email concerning Canada’s war and combat Mission in Afghanistan. As Election Day draws near, we are providing you with this email to keep you informed of our efforts.

    The commitments we are putting before the people of Canada in this election are about hope and opportunity for you, your family, your friends, and neighbours. They are about a future where you come first.

    Highlights from Jack Layton and his team of New Democrats’ plan include:

    - Withdrawing all Canadian forces from the Afghanistan combat mission, with reasonable advance notice and in consultation with our allies.
    - Ensuring that Canada delivers on the aid and development assistance commitment made through the Afghanistan Compact.
    - Ensuring that women and human rights groups in Afghanistan can access Canadian development dollars and that corruption at all levels of government is addressed effectively.
    - Ensuring that the United Nations, not NATO or the US, becomes the lead organization in the provision of security and development assistance in Afghanistan.
    - Exploring and promote opportunities for negotiating peace at the national, regional and international levels, in line with proposals made by the President of Afghanistan and leading security experts.

    We are committed to balanced budgets each and every year. Our full platform of commitments, with costing, can be found by visiting: http://www.ndp.ca/platform. Feel free to pass along our email to anyone who may be interested.

    Again, we appreciate your comments and thoughts. Together, we can make it happen by voting for Jack Layton and his team of New Democrats on October 14th!

    Sincerely,

    Jack Layton and Canada’s New Democrats

    Jack Layton’s New Democrats
    Putting you and your family first.
    Jack Layton et le NPD
    Mettre vos priorités et celles de votre famille au premier plan.

28. Robert Connolly Says:
    October 12th, 2008 at 12:11 pm

    I receive one answer - from Gordon Guyatt NDP, who gave a very forthright and honest answer according to NDP policy. No answers from anyone else.

29. Ryan Says:
    October 12th, 2008 at 11:04 am

    Dear Ryan;

    Thank you for your question. Since I personally was a major contributor to the Green Party’s policy on Afghanistan I thought I would take this question instead of Eric. While the Green Party’s platform does spell out what our policy says, essentially it is that we do have a place in Afghanistan if for no other reason than the fact that ‘International Responsibility’s is one of the Green Party’s principles. However, we would prefer a change in the order of battle. We would like to see us operating under the UN in our more traditional role as peacekeepers. Our soldiers would serve to help protect both the Afghan citizens and the civilian workers who are trying to help the build the Afghan nation. We feel that all efforts should be made to engage more Muslims in the war against the Taliban as they would have more credibility. This would be done as quickly as possible.

    I trust this answers your questions

    Nick Burman
    Campaign Manager

    —– Original Message —– From:
    To:
    Sent: Saturday, October 11, 2008 3:06 PM
    Subject: Your Position on the War in Afghanistan

    Mr Eric Donovan
    Green - Calgary Centre-North

30. Barry Wilkinson Says:
    October 12th, 2008 at 10:43 am

    Dear Mr. Wilkinson,

    Thank you for your message. The Green Party is strongly in favour of Canada reestablishing itself as a leader in diplomacy and peacekeeping. Here is our platform regarding Afghanistan:

    Redesign Canada’s role in Afghanistan

    Canada’s 3D (Diplomacy, Defence, Development) mission to Afghanistan needs significant change. Despite some recent adjustments, it still continues to be heavily weighted to combat and combat-training operations in Kandahar Province and seriously under-weighted in appropriate development assistance and creative regional diplomacy. Canada has committed $1 billion in development assistance for the period 2001 to 2011, but this pales in comparison with the projected $6 billion plus military investment over the next four years.

    The overall political and security situation in Afghanistan continues to worsen despite increased International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) strength. Notwithstanding statements to the contrary and attempts to “win hearts and minds”, the heavy emphasis by the NATO/U.S command to military tactics and operations stimulates rather than dampens the insurgency. In response, greater insurgent recruitment and activity further unbalances the 3D mission. The Taliban benefits from and intends this self-perpetuating cycle of violence because their strategic time frame is much longer and their month-to-month operational costs substantially lower.

    Domestically, the Karzai government is increasingly viewed, even by former members of President Karzai’s cabinet, as a failed administration. Extensive bureaucratic corruption undermines public confidence and support, and, illegal poppy production expands yearly providing a valuable source of funding for the Taliban and corrupt elements within the government. Most disturbing, there is less and less real difference between the oppression of women and abuse of power by some powerful factions within the Afghan government and the Taliban they replaced.

    Despite this disheartening situation, there is also a very high risk that the immediate removal of all foreign troops would lead to the outbreak of a full-scale civil war and a humanitarian catastrophe. Accordingly, the Green Party believes we need to shift as rapidly as possible away from the current US-led NATO command mission, to a more ethnically balanced and regionally represented United Nations command effort and a greater security role for the Afghan National Army. This mission redesign improves the probability that over time the conditions will emerge for a viable political solution to the conflict.

    And we need to be much more innovative in embracing essential anti-poverty and employment programs like Poppies For Medicine (P4M) and shrewd in creating the conditions for the development of better governance models.

    The flow of insurgents across the border with Pakistan together with the threat of Afghan/NATO/ISAF intrusion into northern Pakistan creates a dangerous risk of a larger regional war. Suspected support by Pakistan military intelligence and other outside players of Taliban and other destabilizing forces casts doubt on the ability to determine ‘legitimate targets’. It must be remembered and understood that it was these outside influences that gave rise to the Taliban and their eventual triumph in Afghanistan. We cannot trust that history is not again repeating itself.

    There must be a significant re-design of the international mission to Afghanistan before it is too late.

    Our Vision

    Canada’s role in Afghanistan must shift to the provision of significantly more strategic development and creative peace-building diplomacy. The Green Party does not support further Canadian participation in the NATO-led combat mission to Afghanistan beyond February2009. We do not consider NATO to be the appropriate command structure for security operations against an insurgency. We will support, as part of this withdrawal from the NATO mission, a continued small Canadian military presence in Kabul beyond February2009 to further the development of the logistics support functions of Afghan National Army in order to accelerate their independent operational capacity.

    Crucial to success will be innovative and appropriate development and diplomatic strategies that targets deep structural poverty and gains the goodwill and support of the Afghan people. That is why we fully support the recommendations put forward by the international Senlis Council to create a legal poppy-growing economy in Southern Afghanistan that would supply low-cost narcotic medicines to developing countries as part of a renewed International Aid effort. Together with this support of the Senlis Council recommendations, is also the need for increased support of other traditional agricultural products and harvests.

    Although it is a slow and long-term process, diplomatic efforts must be increased to improve domestic governance mechanisms and democratic institutions. The Afghan government also needs to be strengthened institutionally and practically so that it so that it no longer succumbs to the corruption of drug lords.

    Green Solutions

    Green Party MPs will:

    Begin the process of withdrawing Canadian NATO Forces from Afghanistan as soon as reasonably possible and not later than February 2009.
    Extend a time-limited offer to the Afghan government to provide Canadian military logistics support and legal experts to assist in accelerating the development of the logistics support capacity of the Afghan National Army. This would be outside of NATO command, limited to two years and subject to a bilateral agreement between Canada and Afghanistan. It would be understood that this contingent would also provide training in international human rights law and the Geneva Convention. We will be mandated to document human rights violations with a commitment to bring any breaches or war crimes, including rape, to the appropriate military and/or war crimes tribunal.
    Provide police training through the RCMP for the Afghan police force focusing on human rights, treatment of prisoners adhering to U.N. conventions, civil rights in accordance with Afghan law with the further encouragement to adopt civil rights laws that adhere to U.N. conventions.
    Push for a U.N brokered regional peace conference to help bringing stability to the region through respectful co-existence, non-aggression, and respecting the semi-autonomous history of the region. Such a larger regional peace conference should include Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, representatives of various tribal leaders in the autonomous regions of northern Pakistan and China with the further participation of Russia and India.
    Advance the Senlis Council recommendations to implement a comprehensive strategy to break the cycle of illicit poppy growing and violence that has kept Afghanistan in turmoil for decades with a licensing and quota system for growing poppies and selling the products to legal drug firms that produce morphine and codeine for legitimate legal painkilling use. This legal opium market would produce essential medicines to help the millions of people in developing countries (including Afghanistan itself) who are unnecessarily dying in pain because they don’t have access to these medicines. Green MPs would also urge Canada to purchase such opiate drugs and distribute them as part of our health and poverty related ODA programs.
    Focus and strengthen CIDA efforts on poverty alleviation, reconstruction and development programs to supplement opium cultivation in Afghanistan.
    Significantly expand economic assistance and development for agriculture in the south and east of Afghanistan through access to credit, loans, grants, for the purpose of developing multi-use farms with the further development of water infrastructure for irrigation and potable water supply.
    Invest in more robust diplomatic efforts focusing on improving domestic governance mechanisms and democratic institutions and protecting the slowly emerging democracy and civil society in Afghanistan.
    Protect the right of Afghanis to maintain the control over and the right to ownership of their resources and infrastructure and oppose privatization of natural resources in Afghanistan as part of reconstruction programs.
    Best regards,

    Natalie Odd
    Calgary Centre Candidate
    Green Party of Canada

    —–Original Message—–
    From: wilkinsb@telus.net [mailto:wilkinsb@telus.net]
    Sent: October 1, 2008 2:44 PM
    To: kevin.colton@greenparty.ca
    Subject: I’m voting for the peace and human rights

    Ms Natalie Odd
    Green - Calgary Centre

    Dear Candidate,

    I am concerned that Canada’s military role in Afghanistan and Canada’s international efforts for peace, development, and human rights have not been discussed thoroughly during the election campaign.

    How do you and your party propose that Canada help end the war in Afghanistan?

    Will you and your party commit to re-establishing Canada’s traditional support for international human rights and for the United Nations? What are your priorities?

    I look forward to your response before election day.

    Sincerely,

    barry wilkinson
    #301 4944-8 Ave. SW
    Calgary Alberta
    T3C 0H4

31. Barry Wilkinson Says:
    October 12th, 2008 at 10:43 am

    Hello Barry,

    Thank you for your very important question on this very important issue.

    The war in Afghanistan is not balanced. For every $8 spent on combat, only $1 is spent on aid and reconstruction. Under Stephen Harper’s government Canada’s role as a peacekeeper in the world has eroded. By August 2006, just 56 Canadian soldiers were assigned to peacekeeping missions worldwide, down from the 1,149 fifteen years earlier. Canada has also slipped to 59th out of 114 countries in terms of contributions of military and police personnel to United Nations operations.

    The New Democrats have stood alone in Parliament, consistently calling for the immediate withdrawal of troops from combat in Afghanistan, while ensuring that Canada delivers on its development commitments there.

    Jack Layton and the New Democrats will:

    Withdraw all Canadian forces from the Afghanistan combat mission, with reasonable advance notice and in consultation with our allies.
    Ensure that Canada delivers on the aid and development assistance commitment made through the Afghanistan Compact.
    Ensure that women and human rights groups in Afghanistan can access Canadian development dollars, and that corruption at all levels of government is addressed effectively.
    Ensure that the United Nations, not NATO or the US, becomes the lead organization in the provision of security and development assistance in Afghanistan.
    Explore and promote opportunities for negotiating peace at the national, regional and international levels, in line with proposals made by the President of Afghanistan and leading security experts.
    On Human Rights Jack Layton and the New Democrats will:

    Immediately ratify the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. We will reverse the Conservative and Liberal governments’ refusal to sign the Declaration. We will ensure its provisions are properly respected in Canada and incorporated into Canadian law.
    Continue the strong New Democrat leadership for policies that prevent the abuse of any individual taken into the custody of the Canadian Forces abroad, for example in Afghanistan, regardless of whether that individual remains in Canadian custody or is transferred to the custody of another country.
    Ensure that Canadian companies abide by international human rights law and environmental standards when operating overseas, and develop and enforce sanctions if they do not.
    Work with international partners to create a United Nations agency to promote and support women’s equality throughout the world.
    Ratify the UN Optional Protocol on Torture.
    Fight against impunity for all those who commit war crimes and crimes against humanity through support for the International Criminal Court, and through an increased commitment to using the 2000 War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity Act to prosecute alleged perpetrators in Canada.
    Make international institutions like the United Nations, the World Bank, the World Trade Organization and the International Monetary Fund more democratic, transparent and accountable by opening up Canada’s role within them to public and Parliamentary examination and oversight.
    I hope this answered your questions. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

    Tyler Kinch,
    New Democrat for Calgary Centre
    (403) 244-5278

    On Wed, Oct 1, 2008 at 2:44 PM, wrote:

    Mr Tyler Kinch
    NDP - Calgary Centre

    Dear Candidate,

    I am concerned that Canada’s military role in Afghanistan and Canada’s international efforts for peace, development, and human rights have not been discussed thoroughly during the election campaign.

    How do you and your party propose that Canada help end the war in Afghanistan?

    Will you and your party commit to re-establishing Canada’s traditional support for international human rights and for the United Nations? What are your priorities?

    I look forward to your response before election day.

    Sincerely,

    barry wilkinson
    #301 4944-8 Ave. SW
    Calgary Alberta
    T3C 0H4

    –
    Campaign to elect Tyler Kinch
    New Democrat, Calgary Centre
    (403) 244-5278

32. Steven Staples Says:
    October 12th, 2008 at 10:14 am

    October 7, 2008
    RE: Rideau Institute Questionnaire

    Attached please find the response of Canada’s New Democrats to your 2008 Election
    questionnaire. It is the policy of our party to respond on behalf of all New Democrat
    candidates.

    To find out more, we encourage you to consult: http://www.ndp.ca
    Thank you for your interest in the views of Canada’s New Democrats on the critical
    issues facing Canadians.

    We appreciate your efforts to help voters make an informed decision on voting day.
    Sincerely,
    Jack Layton
    Leader of Canada’s New Democrats

    Questions

    Defence and security

    Q. It has become increasingly apparent that there is no military solution to the
    war in Afghanistan. This month President Karzai reiterated his desire for a
    negotiated settlement with the Taliban.

    1a) If elected, will you commit Canada to supporting President Karzai’s
    efforts to negotiate a peaceful settlement with the Taliban?

    A. Most Canadians want to help the people of Afghanistan rebuild their lives for a
    peaceful future. But seven long years into George Bush’s counter-insurgent war,
    leading military and civilian experts tell us conditions are getting worse, not better.
    While Canadian troops are serving admirably in southern Afghanistan, there are no
    military solutions there, only political ones. Yet Stephen Harper has committed this
    country to years more of the same—more combat under the umbrella of NATO, an
    organization with no track-record of state building. But it doesn’t have to be this
    way.

    As Prime Minister, Jack Layton will withdraw all Canadian forces from the Afghanistan
    combat mission, with reasonable advance notice and in consultation with our allies,
    in order to explore and promote opportunities for negotiating peace at the national,
    regional and international levels, in line with proposals made by President Karzai and
    leading security experts.

    Furthermore, a New Democrat Government will ensure that the United Nations, not
    NATO or the U.S., becomes the lead organization in the provision of security and
    development assistance in Afghanistan.

    Finally, we will ensure that Canada delivers on the aid and development assistance
    commitment made through the Afghanistan Compact, that women and human rights
    groups in Afghanistan can access these Canadian development dollars, and that
    corruption at all levels of government is addressed effectively.

    Q. In 2008, Canada’s military spending will exceed $19 billion per year.
    Further, military spending in 2007–08 is 30% higher than before September
    11, 2001, and after the next two years of planned increases, will be over
    37% higher than 2000–2001. As a result, in 2007, Canada increased its
    ranking internationally from 16th to 15thhighest military spender in the world.
    Even though Canada’s military spending is at its highest level since the
    Second World War, the government has announced plans to spend $490
    billion on defence, including the war in Afghanistan.

    1b) If elected, will you commit to reducing the planned increases in defence
    spending over the next 4 years?

    A. Canada’s military has a proud history, built on the principles of defending human
    rights and promoting peace. Canada’s New Democrats will never support military
    development that betrays this standard and pushes our country towards the Bush
    Administration’s failed approach to foreign policy.

    New Democrats believe there are three main priorities for the Canadian military
    today and in the years to come:

    (1) Assist people facing natural catastrophes, including floods, earthquakes, forest
    fires and other emergencies, both at home and abroad.

    (2) Provide support for peace-making, peace-building and peacekeeping around the
    world.

    (3) Defend Canada from potential attack.

    The Canadian Forces must be properly staffed, equipped and trained to effectively
    cover the full range of possible military operations arising from these three priorities.
    Jack Layton and the New Democrats will:

     Equip the Canadian military to resume leadership in United Nations peacekeeping
    operations, with major new missions reviewed and approved by the House of
    Commons.

     Reform defence procurement so Canada gets good equipment for good value. We
    will require tendering of all major contracts and maximize Canadian content.

     Support military families, veterans and ordinary Canadians by making fair pay,
    good health care, fair benefits, veterans’ services, emergency readiness and good
    equipment top priorities for military spending.

     Implement the New Democrats’ Veteran’s Charter and Veterans First Motion,
    both endorsed by a majority vote in the House of Commons. When fully
    implemented, these New Democrat initiatives will ensure that Canadian Forces
    personnel and their families are taken care of not just during their service days,
    but throughout their lives.

    Q. Despite the fact that a majority of Canadians oppose the use and
    possession of nuclear weapons, Canada has been slowly shifting away
    from its traditionally strong support for nuclear disarmament, at a time
    when the global propensity to use nuclear weapons has increased
    dramatically in the last several years. And, it has placed its interests as a
    member of NATO, ahead of its international obligations as a signatory to
    the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty.

    1c) If elected, will you work with your NATO allies to shift NATO’s doctrinal
    emphasis on nuclear weapons as necessary for deterrence, to a strategy of
    minimal deterrence and eventual abolition?

    As Prime Minister, Jack Layton will re-establish Canada as a leader for global peace
    and disarmament by renewing efforts to stop the proliferation of nuclear weapons,
    ban cluster bombs, and control trade in small arms and light weapons.

    Human Rights
    Q. Canada’s commitment to human rights has been wavering. And, there has
    been little to no debate in parliament about Canada’s inconsistent
    adherence to its international human rights commitments.

    2) If elected, will you:
    - Implement a process of training officials about torture awareness
    that is objectively based on human rights information and not guided
    by political considerations;
    - Reverse the previous federal government’s decision not to
    automatically seek clemency for any Canadian sentenced to the
    death penalty in another country;
    - Work to repatriate Omar Khadr to Canada from Guantanamo Bay;
    and
    - Table a motion at the Foreign Affairs Committee to hold hearings
    into Canada’s recent record with respect to international human
    rights.

    A. At home and abroad, Canadians have been some of the world’s foremost defenders
    of human rights and equality. And while we’ve managed to knock down many
    barriers, much work remains to be done to create the world we dream of.

    That’s why Jack Layton will continue the strong New Democrat leadership for policies
    that prevent the abuse of any Canadian citizen or individual taken into the custody of
    the Canadian Forces abroad, for example in Afghanistan, regardless of whether that
    individual remains in Canadian custody or is transferred to the custody of another
    country.

    A New Democrat Government will ratify the UN Optional Protocol on Torture and
    ensure that Canadian companies abide by international human rights law and
    environmental standards when operating overseas, and develop and enforce
    sanctions if they do not.

    Based on our demonstrated history of support for international law and human
    rights, we will fight against impunity for all those who commit war crimes and crimes
    against humanity through support for the International Criminal Court, and through
    an increased commitment to using the 2000 War Crimes and Crimes Against
    Humanity Act to prosecute alleged perpetrators in Canada.

    National Space Policy
    Q. The recent proposed sale of MacDonald Dettwiler and Associates (MDA) to
    a US weapons manufacturer highlighted the challenges facing Canada’s
    space sector, including the absence of a coherent national policy on space.

    3) If elected, will you commit to:
    - Working with all parties in parliament
    - through hearings at the
    Industry Committee, and with stakeholders and experts, to develop a
    coherent, long-term national space policy for Canada? And, will you
    ensure that such a policy includes a commitment to strengthen the
    Outer Space Treaty and to prevent the weaponization of space?

    A. Jack Layton’s New Democrats have consistently opposed the weaponization of space.
    We believe the government made the right decision in accepting our position to
    reject the sale of MacDonald Dettwiler without further appeal. This decision must
    begin a broader discussion of a Canadian space policy that would keep our standards
    competitive with international ones.