Prime Minister Tight-Lipped on Future Funding to Controversial UN Agency

Prime Minister Refuses to Comment on Funding Future for Controversial UN Agency

March 7, 2024 TruthUSA

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declined to comment on whether Canada plans to reinstate funding to a Palestinian UN relief agency accused by Israel of being involved in the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks.

During a press conference in Toronto on March 7, Mr. Trudeau stated, “We’re not making any announcements today. But we will continue to ensure that Canada acts appropriately in this situation and prioritizes the protection of civilian life in all our actions.”

Canada suspended funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in late January following allegations of organization members being linked to the terrorist attack on Israel.

An unnamed senior official reported by the CBC earlier this week suggested that Canada was planning to resume its funding to UNRWA.

The official disclosed that International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen intended to proceed with a $25 million payment to UNRWA in April, based on an interim report from the United Nations that examined the allegations. Canadian officials are reportedly confident in resuming funding after reviewing this report.

The Epoch Times reached out to Mr. Hussen’s office for comment on the CBC report.

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Olivia Batten, Mr. Hussen’s press secretary, responded to the CBC report by stating, “Our office cannot confirm CBC’s reports, and we have no further comment at this time.”

Reports have emerged about a potential resumption of funding after an announcement regarding Canada’s funding to Gaza was scrapped on March 6.

Mr. Trudeau defended Canada’s past support of UNRWA, stating that the Liberal government reinstated funding in 2019 with specific assurances and conditions. He emphasized that Canada will proceed carefully in light of the serious allegations being investigated by the UN.

The prime minister’s comments come against the backdrop of escalating tensions in Canada over the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators in Toronto have intensified their efforts to disrupt government officials’ events, with some protesters resorting to physical altercations. One protest led to the cancellation of an event attended by Mr. Trudeau and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

Protesters also obstructed a Liberal Party dinner event at a Toronto restaurant on March 5.

Addressing this issue at the press conference, Mr. Trudeau acknowledged concerns from members of the Jewish community who feel unsafe, noting that while Canadians have the right to protest, hateful or harassing behavior is unacceptable. He urged police authorities to ensure the safety of all individuals across the country.

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