OTTAWA—MPs in the House of Commons have started thrashing out their conflicting views of how to oppose the militants of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant.
Debate on the Liberal government’s proposed new anti-ISIL mission began Feb. 17 with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau touting his plan to replace CF-18 fighter jets with a bigger contingent of soldiers to train local forces.
The Conservatives, who under Stephen Harper drafted the original mission to send Canadian fighter-bombers into battle, are condemning the changes as a step back from the fight.
The NDP is asking for a clearer definition of the new effort, seeking to know if Canadian trainers will be in harm’s way and urging the government to spell out an exit strategy.
The government is stressing a broader approach, including more humanitarian aid and help for refugees.
Trudeau says the training mission is the right role for Canada in the right place.
