Editor:
In June, Canada will be hosting the G8 leaders summit in Toronto. The government of Canada has said their "signature initiative" at this summit is dealing with maternal and child health care in third world countries, particularly countries in Africa.
Last week cabinet ministers Bev Oda and Lawrence Cannon both stated that the G8 initiative "does not deal in any way, shape or form with family planning." We all know that no one in the Conservative party makes a statement that is not vetted by the prime minister's office, so this is the position the government was trying to put forward.
After considerable criticism from Canada and around the world, the prime minister did a partial flip flop on his position and said the "door is not closed" on discussing family planning.
Canada has long been known for helping people in impoverished countries, and we have never shied away from doing what is right. Family planning is the linchpin for helping women around the world take charge of their reproductive health. Saying we have not "closed the door" is an insult to Canadians, global heath care workers and these women who need us to help them stand up for themselves in countries that care very little for women's rights.
Mr. Harper, do the right thing - stand up and categorically say to these women that Canada opens doors to the world, not sits on its hands to see which way the wind blows.
Paul Keyes
Hopkins Landing
