March 29, 2006

For Immediate Release

NCCAR Troubled by Canada 's Decision to Suspend

Aid and Ties to Palestinian Authority

Ottawa , March 29, 2006 - The National Council on Canada-Arab Relations (NCCAR) is troubled with the Government of Canada's decision to suspend aid to the Palestinian Authority (PA) and to sever all ties with members of the cabinet.

"We're disappointed by this decision but we are not surprised since the government had given an indication this would happen," said NCCAR President Hussein Amery.  "And we are perplexed and troubled that the Canadian government did not seek the advice of the concerned actors implementing projects on the ground," he added. "This decision may have serious implications for Canadian organizations working to help Palestinians, such as the University of Windsor and CMHC, and the people they are trying to help in areas such as judicial reform and housing.”

NCCAR believes the decision to suspend ties with the PA was taken too hastily. “The PA, President Mahmoud Abbas and even Hamas since its electoral win have made numerous statements about a willingness to negotiate with Israel and a continued commitment to maintaining a ceasefire, which has held for more than a year," explained Mr. Amery. "That Canada was the first western nation to take this measure is surprising as it further undermines Canada 's position as an honest broker in the region and may advance the position of radicals within the Hamas-led PA and undermine moderate actors," he added.

With this announcement, NCCAR believes the Canadian government has now imposed punitive measures on the Palestinians, but not continued to hold Israel accountable for its actions considered illegal under international law—including the illegal occupation of Palestinian lands and the continued construction of settlements. " Canada is cutting aid while Palestinians in Gaza are standing in bread lines. The UN, the World Bank and others have clearly indicated the Palestinians are now facing an economic crisis," said Amery. “ Canada should be encouraging moderation by both the new Israeli government and the PA as well as a return to the bargaining table to negotiate a just & lasting peace.”

While NCCAR recognizes as positive Canada 's decision to ensure the continuation of humanitarian aid through the UN and other agencies, the implications for the long-term must also be addressed as Palestinians witness a growing humanitarian crisis due to nearly four decades of occupation. NCCAR reiterates its position that only through peaceful negotiations and a commitment on the part of Israel will peace be achieved between Israelis and Palestinians. 

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Contact:

Annik Lussier, NCCAR media relations coordinator, (613) 238-3795 or (613) 301-9955 lussier@nccar.ca