SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — Canada-Haiti Parliamentary Association

Honourable senators, on November 18, I presided over the creation of the Canada-Haiti Parliamentary Association. This date is symbolic, because it was on this day in 1803 that the Battle of Vertières took place, marking the culmination of the Haitian revolution that led Haiti to declare independence on January 1, 1804.

Over 200 years later, the people of Haiti are still waging a battle to democratically embark on the road to development in a nation governed by the rule of law.

It won’t be an easy road, as the country faces multiple political and security crises, in addition to being hit hard by natural disasters. Most recently, the disproportionate death toll in Haiti from Hurricane Melissa reminded us of how intensely vulnerable the country is to climate change.

Haiti is now grappling with a complex and multi-faceted crisis involving armed conflict, political instability and a deteriorating humanitarian situation. Furthermore, the chaos going on in Haiti creates a very attractive environment for transnational crime.

We must also recognize how much Haitians have contributed to Canada’s development with their knowledge and expertise. Since the first waves of immigration, deep ties have been forged between Canada and Haiti.

I mentioned in my maiden speech that I want to devote part of my term to restoring democracy in Haiti and supporting its development. I am now proud to say that I am not alone, because more than 20 parliamentarians from coast to coast to coast, from both chambers and from several different groups and parties, joined me to participate in the first meeting of the Canada-Haiti Parliamentary Association. By the way, it’s not too late for you to join.

Together, we can engage Canadians, other parliamentarians and the international organizations we are a part of to ensure that Canada is able to fully play a constructive role in supporting the solutions put forward by Haitians and their diaspora, while respecting their sovereignty and dignity.

Honourable senators, I hope you will be able to participate in our first event on the Hill on January 15. This event is being organized in collaboration with the Embassy of Haiti in Canada.

In closing, I would like to congratulate the Haitian soccer team on qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in 52 years. Canada awaits you.

Thank you.