Debate over Canada’s role in fight against ISIS

MP’s will now vote tomorrow on Canada’s role in the fight against ISIS. They debated the motion in the House of Commons Monday. The NDP and Liberals are opposing the mission saying air strikes are not the only option. But Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird says he wants Canada to show a united front saying we will be judged on whether we took on the fight against ISIS.

Baird opened the debate by promising 10-million dollars in humanitarian aid and support for victims of sexual violence in the Islamic State. This is in addition to sending fighter jets. And he urged the opposition to keep an open mind about Canada’s role saying now is not the time to sit on the side lines: “I believe we will be judged in future by whether we took on this fight or ducked it.”

Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird is urging parliament to support the Harper governments motion to join the American-led air-war against ISIS: “Every step of the way I want Canada to show a strong and united front in the fight against ISIL.”

But the NDP and Liberals are expected to vote against Harper’s plan saying military force is not the answer.

NDP Leader Tom Mulcair: “Look at the countries that are indeed close to us, whom the government likes to cite, but who are not involved in any combat mission — Italy, Germany, Norway. All close NATO allies. All involved in providing aid. All rejecting air strikes as Canada should reject airstrikes.

John Baird: “Sending someone a doctor, lawyer or aid worker is great but it’s not going to stop people they are trying to help from getting slaughtered in the first place.”

Even before MP’s vote on the air mission against ISIS, the Harper government has sent a small advance team of less than a dozen people to the Middle East to work with the American-led coalition to finalize basing and logistics for airstrikes.

Canada’s role will include fighter planes, surveillance aircraft and support personnel for up to six months. We asked people if they’re behind Harper’s decision to go to war against ISIS.

“I think we should be there why? Because they are doing terrible things there beheading people journaists like yourself and that’s not right.”

“It’s unbelievable what’s going on over there. They can’t protect themselves. They need help so absolutely.”

The Conservative majority means the motion will most likely be passed. The debate is expected to continue into tomorrow, with a vote Tuesday evening.