Canadians in Haiti await evacuation amid gang violence; weather hinders first attempt

The first attempt to airlift Canadians out of Haiti was grounded on Monday due to adverse weather conditions in the Dominican Republic, marking a temporary setback in Canada’s efforts to evacuate its citizens stranded amidst Haiti’s escalating gang warfare. André François Giroux, Canada’s ambassador to Haiti, announced the delay, attributing it to the “safety of everybody” involved.

Haiti, grappling with rampant gang violence, has seen its main airport in Port-au-Prince shut down, leaving many foreigners, including Canadians, seeking safe passage out of the country. In response, Canada initiated an assisted departure operation, intending to transport eligible Canadians by helicopter to the Dominican Republic, from where they could safely fly home.

Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly, emphasizing the Canadian government’s commitment to citizen safety, detailed that the evacuation plan prioritizes the most vulnerable Canadians, including those with medical conditions and children. However, the program requires eligible citizens to possess valid Canadian passports, with the government exploring additional options for other Canadians and their families in Haiti.

Less than 300 Canadians have sought assistance for evacuation, with fewer than 30 currently eligible and willing to leave immediately. The operation’s logistics, requiring individuals to navigate to a designated meeting point in Haiti, pose significant challenges for some, particularly given the dangerous conditions on the ground.

Global Affairs Canada (GAC) has made concerted efforts to inform Canadians in Haiti about the evacuation operation, advising those in need of assistance to register with the department. With approximately 3,000 Canadians in Haiti registered with the federal government, GAC has been actively responding to inquiries and providing support amid the crisis.

As the situation in Haiti remains perilous, the Canadian government’s dedication to ensuring the safety of its citizens abroad is paramount. The ongoing crisis, characterized by kidnappings, robberies, and violent crime, underscores the urgent need for a safe and coordinated evacuation effort. As Canadians in Haiti anxiously await their departure, the promise of resuming the operation once weather conditions improve offers a glimmer of hope amidst the turmoil.