Dear Editor:
Some constituents are experiencing confusion about how to respond to the recent earthquakes in Iran in light of the current sanctions imposed by the Canadian government (Iran Quake Highlights Aid Confusion, Aug. 15, North Shore News). In collaboration with the office of Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird, I have been working to clarify the facts about Canada's sanctions against the Iranian regime and how they impact efforts to provide aid.
As the government liaison for the Iranian and Persian community in Canada, I feel a close connection to the people of Iran and to all that affects them. The devastation of the Aug. 11 earthquakes has only exacerbated an already tough economic situation domestically. However, our government is clear that tough sanctions will not stand in the way of helping those who need it most.
The Department of Foreign Affairs has recently posted crystal-clear language clarifying what is and is not restricted under sanctions. Regulations can be viewed under the Natural Disasters tab in the foreign policy section of the department's website: www. international.gc.ca. Even with sanctions in place, our government has an exemption policy allowing funds to be sent for any "activity that has as its purpose the safeguarding of human life, disaster relief, or the providing of medicine or medical supplies." Anyone looking for more information can contact DFAIT directly or visit my site: www.johnweston.ca.
I hope this is helpful.
John Weston, MP West Vancouver
