Liberal Leader Stephane Dion told a House of Commons debate that his party is prepared to vote to extend the Afghanistan mission until 2011, with some minor conditions.
"If the government provides us with reasonable responses to our questions, and if they indicate they are committed to the letter and spirit of this motion, then the official opposition will support this motion," Dion said Monday.
Dion's questions include:
Why the government wants to leave in July 2011, not February 2011 as the Liberals suggest;
Why the government wants the 1,000 additional troops to serve as reinforcements rather than replacing Canadians in a combat role; and
Why the government even thinks 1,000 extra troops are enough, considering some military commanders suggest as many as 5,000 more are required in Kandahar province.
Extension of the mission has been contingent on more help for Canada's 2,500 troops in Kandahar province. The recent Manley panel called for an additional 1,000-soldier battle group from NATO and more resources like medium-lift helicopters and aerial drones. Prime Minister Stephen Harper has accepted that recommendation. Source...
