Stephen Harper and Liberal Government

Justin Trudeau: The Conservatives, who under Stephen Harper drafted the original mission to send Canadian fighter-bombers into battle, are condemning the changes as a step back from the fight, according to Hamilton Spectator. The NDP is asking for a clearer definition of the new effort, seeking to know if Canadian trainers will be in harm way and urging the government to spell out an exit strategy. Debate of the Liberal government proposed new anti-ISIL mission began today with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau touting his plan to replace CF-18 fighter jets with a bigger contingent of soldiers to train local forces. The government is stressing a broader approach, including more humanitarian aid and help for refugees. Interim Conservative leader Rona Ambrose begged to differ. "There are times in the life of a Parliament, and in the history of this House, when providence calls upon us to lead," Ambrose said. "Lead by conviction, lead by a responsibility we collectively have to the Canadian people and lead by fighting evil — and, sadly, today is not a day of leadership." Withdrawing from the bombing campaign means pulling a vital component out of the U.S.-led coalition effort against ISIL, she added. "To blunt the sharp end of our spear is not in keeping with the contributions of our allies," she said. "We know, too, thanks to poll after poll, that it not what most Canadians want us to do." The Liberal plan calls for the Canadian fighters to stop bombing by Monday. Trudeau says the training mission is the right role for Canada in the right place. "Our goal is to allow local forces to take the fight directly to ISIL, to reclaim their homes, land and future," he told the Commons. "We will be more significantly involved in counterterrorism measures, improving chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear security in the region." Trudeau rejected the notion that Canada is backing away from the fight. "We believe there is an important role for Canada to plan in the fight against ISIL, a role that we can play, a role that we must play." In addition to more trainers, Canada will keep its aerial refuelling and reconnaissance planes in the fight, which the prime minister characterized as defending peace and democracy against "terrorism and barbarism." "ISIL stands against everything that we value as Canadians and poses a direct threat to our people and our friends." He said the government revamped mission will be robust, comprehensive and effective and will deliver results on the ground. (www.immigrantscanada.com). As reported in the news.