A delegation of the Canadian Parliament visits Bil'in

09/08/2009

by Bil’in Popular Committee

Today the Canadian Parliament members present were: Libby Davies of Vancouver area, and of the New Democratic Party ; Boris Wrzesnewskyj, of the Toronto area and the Liberal Party ; and Richard Nadeau, of Gatineau and the Bloc Quebecois.

At the beginning of the meeting, the MPs gave introductions on their work and interest in Bil’in. Expressing his concern over last week’s arrest of Bil’in Village Secretary, Mohammed Khatib, MP Boris Wrzesnewskyj stated that he was "astounded that an elected representative would be put behind bars - it’s especially alarming, as elected officials ourselves, to think that something like this could happen to us." He continued, "We’re here in Bil’in to learn from you and to experience the place firsthand. But we’re also here to show our support and solidarity for your incredible non-violent efforts toward a just peace."

The members of the Popular Committee gave an explanation for their suffering caused by the occupation and the construction of the wall, and Emily Schieffer talk about the subject to incursions from the village and arrested the night, and the targeting of activists, particularly members of the People’s Committee to resist the wall. Neta Golan is active from the International Solidarity Movement has addressed the subject of the prisoners beaten and arrested during the violence, contrary to all international law. Popular Committee has confirmed its determination to continue to maintain and night incursions and arrests would not deter them from their actions.