Statement: RNAO issues appeal to federal government and Minister Baird to secure the freedom of Dr. Loubani and Professor Greyson

TORONTO, Sept. 13, 2013 /CNW/ - Today marks the 27^th day Dr. Tarek Loubani and Professor John Greyson have been held in captivity in an Egyptian prison. They are being held against their will and without charge.

Members of the Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) are adding their voices to the growing list of individuals and organizations appealing to the Canadian government and Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird to secure their immediate release.

Dr. Loubani, who works as an emergency room physician in London, Ontario, is a passionate and committed advocate for refugees. Professor Greyson's (York University) work in film has been recognized for its positive activism.

"We are concerned that days and weeks have passed since their arrest on August 16 with no action, and are worried about their safety and well-being," said Doris Grinspun, RNAO's chief executive officer.

"Our members, (35,000 RNs) urge the federal government to take swift action," added Rhonda Seidman-Carlson, president of RNAO.

The Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) is the professional association representing registered nurses in Ontario. Since 1925, RNAO has advocated for healthy public policy, promoted excellence in nursing practice, increased nurses' contribution to shaping the health-care system, and influenced decisions that affect nurses and the public they serve.

For more information about RNAO, visit our website at www.RNAO.ca You can also check out our Facebook page at www.RNAO.ca/facebook and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/RNAO.

SOURCE: Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario

Marion Zych
Director of Communications, RNAO
416-408-5605 (office)
647-406-5605 (cellular)