Duncan visits L’viv, Kyiv, and Kharkiv to examine rule of law, democratization, and status of Tymoshenko and other jailed opposition members.

OTTAWA – Linda Duncan, Member of Parliament for Edmonton–Strathcona and New Democrat Critic for Public Works and Government Services is visiting Ukraine until May 18, 2012 as a member of the delegation of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development.

Duncan will visit the cities of L’viv, Kyiv, and Khariv, and will have the opportunity to meet with a wide range of representatives of Ukrainian society. These meetings will provide an insight into economic and political developments in Ukraine, as well as human rights and civil society.

“I am honoured to be a part of this visit to Ukraine.” said Duncan. “The relationship between Canada and Ukraine is strong and historic. For the Ukrainian diaspora in Canada and all Canadians, it is important to see the path to progress continue for Ukrainian people – in terms of rule of law, democracy, a free press, and a vibrant civil society.”

“Joined by my NDP colleague, Alexandrine Latendresse, MP for Louis-St-Laurent, we are confident that our first-hand experience meeting with representatives in Ukraine will give us a deeper understanding of the human rights situation in Ukraine. These insights will be invaluable in looking forward, in particular to the upcoming Parliamentary elections in Ukraine this fall.”

“This trip has a special significance for me given the strong presence and contribution of the Ukrainian community in Edmonton, and as a Director of the Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship Group.”

The Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development will be issuing a report following the official visit to Ukraine and previous witnesses to the committee on the situation in Ukraine. Ms. Duncan will also be posting highlights of her personal observations.