Subcommittee on International Human Rights committee  It is challenged. I think that first and foremost the weakness of the institutions affects the Hondurans themselves, that is for sure. In terms of Canadian interests specifically, nothing specifically comes to mind in terms of instances where Canadian organizations or enterprises

Subcommittee on International Human Rights committee  We do not do so systematically. However, as a matter of fact, when there are issues that arise between a Canadian organization or a Canadian enterprise and local authorities in Honduras or elsewhere, usually the Canadian organizations or enterprises report to us and they ask for

Subcommittee on International Human Rights committee  As a general proposition, in Honduras and elsewhere we follow the activities of Canadian organizations, including Canadian companies. When there are issues that arise in terms of social conflict and the various claims that are made, these come to our attention either by the organ

Subcommittee on International Human Rights committee  Thank you very much for your question. Mr. Chair, we do not have very specific statistics that would cover the specific period since the new administration took office in January of this year until now, so I would not be in a position to provide you with hard and reliable stati

Subcommittee on International Human Rights committee  Changes definitely need to take place to ensure progress on human rights. I think that is certain. In terms of what steps need to be taken writ large, the capacity of the justice institutions has to be improved. I think we're well aware that the impunity rate in Honduras is extre

Subcommittee on International Human Rights committee  The current level of funding for Honduras from the Government of Canada in terms of development as well as security-related and human rights-related cooperation initiatives stood at $38 million in financial year 2012-13. Again, Honduras is a country of focus, so $38 million for a

Subcommittee on International Human Rights committee  I will give two indications. I've already mentioned in my statement a number of measures that have been taken, but I will point to one more in particular. First, the appointment of a state secretary who comes from civil society is, I think, a good indication that there is some

Subcommittee on International Human Rights committee  I would not have specific information on this issue, Mr. Chair.

Subcommittee on International Human Rights committee  Thank you very much for your comments and your questions, sir. Mr. Chair, for sure we do recognize and acknowledge that there are serious issues in Honduras. I think I mentioned that very explicitly in our statement. There is cause for concern, and yes, human rights defenders an

Subcommittee on International Human Rights committee  Thank you very much for your question. Mr. Chair, on the specific issue of measures, following the recommendations of the Inter-American Commission, what we know is that some of these measures have included, for instance, police protection for the individuals who are affected. W

Subcommittee on International Human Rights committee  Yes, for a number of them, at least.

Subcommittee on International Human Rights committee  There is a whole set of Canadians who provide technical assistance and support through various projects. For instance, there is the Justice Education Society, which is a Vancouver-based organization. They are there, present on the ground. They provide technical assistance to tra

Subcommittee on International Human Rights committee  Thank you, Mr. Chair, and distinguished members of the committee. I am very pleased to appear before you today to provide an update on the human rights situation in Honduras. My predecessor appeared before you in February 2013. He highlighted the situation in Honduras at the

International Trade committee  Thank you.

International Trade committee  Yes, and if I can add, Mr. Chair—