Situation in the Central African Republic

Elizabeth May: Mr. Chair, as this take note debate has made clear, all parties in this place are concerned about the humanitarian crisis in the Central African Republic. We bring different degrees of policy solutions to the table. None of us has all of the answers. This is a complex, difficult and dangerous situation, particularly for the most vulnerable, particularly for children, on both sides of the conflict.

The sectarian violence is displacing tens of thousands, if not millions of people. In fact, the number right now is one million people have been displaced by the sectarian violence in the Central African Republic. There is no side to take here, except for the side of peace. There is no side to take here, except for the side of non-violence.

Given how complex the Central African Republic situation is, and the fact that it appears to be worsening by the day, and while we thank the administration for putting money toward the crisis, would my hon. friend agree that we may be called upon to do more? Would she agree that there is a collective will in this place, reflected through the take note debate, on all sides of the House, that if asked, we would do more? We would examine the need to do more and to do it urgently.

Cheryl Gallant: Mr. Chair, it has been demonstrated that we are closely watching the situation. Last year we gave substantial funds toward security and food for the displaced people, as well as for the people inside the country. We just did so again recently. Certainly we have a record of giving more.

As this debate draws to an end, I would like to thank everyone who sat here and listened all night for the attention they are paying to this very grave situation.