Debate Needed on Afghanistan Mission

OTTAWA -- The Green Party of Canada is calling for a formal Parliamentary debate on the post 2011 role of Canadian forces in Afghanistan. “A change in the mission requires a debate and a vote in the House,” said Green Leader Elizabeth May.

The Greens proposal is that Canada’s role in Afghanistan must shift to the provision of significantly more development, and creative peace-building diplomacy.

The current withdrawal deadline was the result of a vote in the House. The decision to extend the mission should not be made by the Prime Minister acting alone. It is an aspect of fundamental respect for the Canadian people and Canadian institutions that the issue return to the House for a full discussion. It should not be a rushed debate as was the case on the previous vote.

“The bottom line is that there is still important work to be done by Canadians in Afghanistan.  However, it is up to Parliament to decide the best way forward,” said May.

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Contact Information:
Debra Eindiguer
Press Secretary
Green Party of Canada
media@greenparty.ca
c: 613.240.8921
www.greenparty.ca