Federal Court Backs Government in Lawsuit by Canadian Arab Federation

Ottawa, December 24, 2013 — Yesterday, the Federal Court upheld the Minister of Immigration's decision, in 2009, not to renew two settlement funding agreements with the Canadian Arab Federation. The Government's position was that the organisation was an inappropriate partner for the delivery of taxpayer-funded services to newcomers due to its apparent endorsement of listed terrorist organisations and public statements that were arguably anti-Semitic. Paul Calandra, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, on behalf of the Government of Canada, today issued the following statement:

"The Federal Court ruling is a victory for common sense and the rule of law.
"Our Government's position is clear: organisations that appear to promote hatred, including anti-Semitism, or excuse violence and terrorism do not have the right, and should not expect, to receive tax dollars to deliver Government services."

For further information (media only), please contact:
Alexis Pavlich
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064