Safety minister draws fire from Tamil group

The Canadian Tamil Congress is accusing Public Safety Minister Vic Toews of fuelling anti-Tamil sentiment with his comments about Tamil Tiger terrorists being among 492 migrants who landed in British Columbia last week.

The Canadian Tamil Congress (CTC) charged that Toews incited “distrust and anger” towards members of the Sri Lankan community. “The comments have spurned a backlash against Tamil Canadians who have built homes and lives in this country,” said a CTC statement. “(It) can tarnish the much recognized multicultural and compassionate fabric of our nation.”

Chris McCluskey, a spokesman for Toews, countered the government will not sit back while Canada becomes a target for criminal operations.

“"Our government has taken a strong position against concerns over the possibility of human smuggling and other criminal activity — not legitimate refugees," said McCluskey. Christopher McClusky, Toews spokesman, said

The CTC said it is “inappropriate for the government to speculate on the guilt or innocence of the MV Sun Sea’s passengers before much needed inquiries have been completed.” The passengers on board the vessel have filed refugee claims.

The group is calling on Toews to be more “judicious in his approach” in dealing with the sensitive matter.

“Any premature comments and speculations by public officials will undermine the investigative mechanisms in place,” the statement said. “If there were individuals who acted in violation of Canadian laws, law enforcement have the powers to investigate.”