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NEWS RELEASES

December 5, 1996 No. 237

CANADA WELCOMES EXTENSION OF

UN PEACEKEEPING MISSION IN HAITI

The Government of Canada today welcomed the decision of the United Nations Security Council to grant an extension to the UN Support Mission in Haiti (UNSMIH). This decision follows the November 13 request by President Préval for a mandate extension. The Security Council authorized a renewal of six months. If the Secretary General reports by March 31, 1997, that UNSMIH could make a further contribution to the goals of the mission, the Security Council would extend this mandate for a final time for an additional two months.

"Haiti has undergone a positive transformation over the last two years and Canada, acting bilaterally and under UNSMIH, has played a significant role in this evolution," said Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy. "However, Haiti's democracy is still fragile. UNSMIH's continued presence will provide the stability we need to move forward on peacebuilding activities such as training the police, improving the justice system and promoting economic development."

"The Canadian Forces have contributed significantly to maintaining a secure and stable environment in Haiti," said Minister of National Defence Douglas Young. "Canada will continue with its contribution of 750 troops who will work to build on the progress that has been made to date."

Minister for International Co-operation and Minister Responsible for la Francophonie Don Boudria, who was in Haiti November 20-21, added, "We have come a long way since March 1995. Canada and the other international partners will continue to support the Government of Haiti in its effort to maintain a more secure society. Haiti's security and stability allow the basic human needs of the Haitian people to be met and the alleviation of poverty to be achieved."

"The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) will continue to play a key role in ensuring safety and security in Haiti through its training of civilian police," said Solicitor General Herb Gray. "The RCMP's monitoring and training, along with its promotion of community policing, will help further develop a stable and professional police service."

Minister Axworthy presented an overview of the situation in Haiti during an appearance before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade on November 19. The continuation of Canada's involvement in UNSMIH was approved by the Standing Committee in a resolution passed on November 26.

UNSMIH will be jointly funded by the UN and voluntary contributions from interested members, including Canada and the United States. Its mandate will be to assist in the professionalization of the Haitian National Police, to help maintain a climate of public security and to provide assistance in strengthening Haiti's democratic institutions.

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This document is also available on the Internet site of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade:

http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca