Canada’s Extended Mission Against ISIS

OP-ED from MP Parm Gill
The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) have conducted a campaign of unspeakable atrocities.
ISIS has also made it clear that it targets Canada and Canadians. And the brutal attacks last fall in SaintJean-sur-Richelieu and in Ottawa are a strong reminder that Canada is not immune to the threat of
jihadist terrorism. Our Conservative Government continues to offer our deepest condolences to the
family and friends of the members involved, and we honour the memory of Warrant Officer Patrice
Vincent and Corporal Nathan Cirillo.
These senseless acts of violence strengthen our resolve as Canadians to safeguard our values of
freedom, democracy and the rule of law. Canada is doing our part to combat ISIS. With our allies and
partners, we have helped push ISIS back.
Our Conservative Government remains in strong condemnation of the actions of ISIS. With the support of Parliament, our Government has extended and expanded Canada’s military contribution to the fight against ISIS.
We are extending Canada’s air combat mission for up to 12 months. With our allies, we will continue to launch air strikes against ISIS.
Canada is contributing one air-to-air refuelling aircraft, two Aurora surveillance aircraft, and the
necessary air crews and support personnel. And, through Canada’s air combat mission, we’ve joined our allies attacking ISIS in Syria.
In addition, our Government is extending the deployment of the Canada’s Special Forces, who continue to advise and assist security forces in Iraq, in a non-combat role.
Canada is also responding to the humanitarian crisis in Iraq. Indeed, during Prime Minister Harper’s visit to the Middle East this month, he heard first hand from Iraqi leaders about the security and
humanitarian challenges facing the country. That’s why our Government is continuing to take strong
action to provide humanitarian assistance to the civilians displaced and suffering because of the ongoing violence. We have dispatched relief supplies for refugees including tents, blankets, and kitchen and hygiene kits with the help of the Red Cross. In addition to providing supplies to those displaced by theviolence, we are also providing medical supplies to health facilities, and helping with emergency repairs to water and sanitation facilities.
If left unchecked, this terrorist threat will only grow. Canada will not stand on the sidelines, we will do our part. Our Conservative Government is standing up for the safety and security of Canadian families and innocent civilians around the world.