Mr. Speaker, I want to bring to the attention of the House a request to you for an emergency debate regarding the situation in Iran.
As we know, massive protests are increasing in Iran. We heard reports just before question period that there are up to one million people in the streets of Tehran who are basically protesting the regime's response to the election.
On Friday an election was held in Iran. In fact, hundreds of people went to the embassy in Ottawa to vote. The concern is that the voices of those who voted in the election on Friday were not honoured.
This is a critical moment not only for the people in Iran but for the region. The Government of Canada has a role to play as an international player and a member of the United Nations. We can offer support and help to make sure the election that was carried out was one actually done in good stead, and that the people of Iran are going to be honoured with a valid counting of the votes.
Finally, there are calls for a new election or to assess the election that took place. Canada has a role to play in offering itself as an independent observer.
I am making this request for my colleagues to debate this issue tonight in the House of Commons.