Statement by NDP Foreign Affairs Critic Paul Dewar on the adoption of an UN Arms Trade Treaty

New Democrat Foreign Affairs Critic Paul Dewar (Ottawa Centre) issued the following statement in reaction to the adoption of a UN Arms Trade Treaty:

"New Democrats applaud the approval of a global Arms Trade Treaty by the United Nations General Assembly. This treaty aims to keep weapons out of the hands of those who would use them to commit war crimes, abuse human rights, or engage in organized crime.

We are pleased that the international community has come together on such an important issue. This is a good day for the United Nations, and for civilians around the world who are imperilled by the unregulated international trade in weapons.

Today also marks the culmination of an outstanding campaign on the part of civil society organizations to develop a treaty that will make a real difference in the lives of real people. New Democrats congratulate these groups on their success.

The Arms Trade Treaty will be open for signature by national governments beginning on June 3, 2013. We urge the Canadian government to commit today to sign the treaty on that date."