The Muskoka Initiative continued

"The government has been quite clear that it would approve projects that met the criteria of the Muskoka Initiative, criteria that were approved by Parliament" Andrew MacDougall

Well, great, good to hear. That the government of Canada, albeit a Conservative-led government is reasonable enough despite the prevailing general conservative ideological slant against provision of birth control and abortion services to women in need, to recognize the need to work with any organization demonstrating it would abide by associated Muskoka Initiative criteria.

I'd give my government a big shining Gold Star for outstanding performance on that one.

Deciding, after doubts have been expressed to the contrary, that it would fund International Planned Parenthood Federation in its important work abroad, focusing on sex education, family planning and post-abortion counselling. There is no intention on their part to use the government funding of $6-million for support of safe abortions in developing countries, separately funded.

Bev Oda, the International Development Minister announced the $6-million over a three-year period; not very much money, in fact, but enough to count in some respects, well husbanded and directed. For projects in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Mali, Sudan and Tanzania, to advance health and nutrition programs to benefit women and children.

The Government of Canada affirming it is prepared to work with any organization that is dedicated to abide by those simple, life-affirming criteria.