NDP statement on the fall of the Assad regime

NDP foreign affairs critic MP Heather McPherson (Edmonton Strathcona) made the following statement:

"Beautiful to witness the joy and celebration of Syrians at the fall of Assad’s brutal regime. New Democrats stand in solidarity with Syrian-Canadians and the Syrian people, who have endured horrors beyond imagination.

Many Syrians are waiting for news of their loved ones detained by the regime. We hold these people in our hearts. As Syria enters a transitional period, we call on Canada to support the Syrian people’s democratic aspirations and immediate humanitarian needs.

We also ask Canada to increase financial support to human rights protections and international justice efforts, including support for the ICJ’s Syria investigations. Those responsible for atrocities must be brought to justice.

New Democrats yearn for an end to repression, corruption and atrocities committed by all authoritarians and dictators. Syria’s future must be free and democratic, and determined by Syrians. As Syrians enter an uncertain but hopeful era, Canada must be here to help."