Can you teach someone to swim without getting wet?

Media Release
For Immediate Release
November 16, 2010

Ottawa — Reaction to Afghanistan Training Mission by Steven Staples, Rideau Institute

“Despite the government’s assurances to the contrary, this new training mission will likely involve combat. As long as Canadian troops remain in Afghanistan, there will be pressure for Canada to lift its non-combat caveats, especially if the war worsens over the coming years.

“The Liberals should claim victory as this fulfils their quiet campaign to have the Afghanistan mission extended beyond 2011. But, while the Liberals may have achieved their short-term objective, this may have political benefit for the NDP and the Conservatives. Canadians outside of Quebec who oppose extending the mission will have only the NDP to express their view now.

The Conservatives have managed to shift Liberal attention away from their effective attacks on the government over the F-35 stealth fighters and mistreatment of veterans, while also allowing Mr. Harper to escape criticism from his earlier commitment to withdraw troops.”

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For further information:
Steven Staples, President, Rideau Institute, o. (613) 565-9449 ext. 24,
c.(613) 290-2695, sstaples@rideauinstitute.ca

The Rideau Institute is an independent research, advocacy, and consulting group
based in Ottawa.