CIDA merge with DFAIT concerning for Canada's leading NGO

World Vision responds to marriage of aid and trade

OTTAWA, March 21, 2013 /CNW/ - In the wake of today's announcement by CIDA that the international development arm of the Canadian Government will amalgamate with the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Dave Toycen, president and CEO of World Vision Canada, issued the following statement:

"We are extremely concerned that this new direction for CIDA means that development assistance will be used to advance Canada's prosperity and security, rather than focusing solely on the needs and aspirations of the poor. It speaks of linkages between Canada's development and trade objectives growing at an equal pace, rather than valuing development objectives and the needs of the poor in their own right. There are so many voices in the world today speaking out for the needs of business and the powerful and we're concerned that those few voices that prioritize the poor risk being lost."

"We are particularly concerned about the needs of children who are living in extreme poverty and are subject to malnutrition and exploitation. Responding to their needs might not get us closer to our trade objectives. Responding to their needs might not get us closer to our foreign policy objectives. But doing so reflects the compassion of Canadians who expect Canada to be a substantive leader in responding to the needs and aspirations of the poor."

"However, in this new budget, it's encouraging to see child, newborn and maternal health, along with other new initiatives, affirmed. Our hope is this is an indication that as CIDA moves forward in this new structure, aid for the most vulnerable will be maintained. We're also pleased to see that the budget has been sustained and that the minister's mandate has been changed to be a full minister."

World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender. Visit our News Centre at worldvision.ca

SOURCE: World Vision Canada

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