The Jewish War Veterans of Canada wants the federal government “to establish a special segment of the Justice Ministry in order to institute a study of law and conventions as a basis for a public report on war crimes prosecution possibilities in Canada.” Such a report, the JWV said, would constitute the terms of reference either “for prosecution or clarity of understanding of the realities which preclude action at this time.”
The JWV national executive called for this action at a recent meeting and a resolution to this effect has been sent by the national commander, Senator David Croll, to Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau.
The JWV pointed out to the Prime Minister that Nazis charged with war crimes are living in Canada “under the protective sanctuary of Canadian citizenship.” The JWV alleged that these Nazis succeeded “by lies and deceit in continuing to take refuge in our country, thereby gaining immunity from deportation and trial.” It added “There is a consequent probability that with the absence of appropriate legal process, those guilty as charged will be able to escape exposure and punishment.”
The JWV pointed out that Canadian law sets no time limit on prosecution for murder and says most Holocaust crimes led to murder. Because of this, “Canadian justice suggests the vital importance of a minute examination of law and precedent by government in order to determine whether or not procedures exist” to prosecute Nazis residing in Canada. The JWV has asked other Jewish organizations to support this resolution and is also soliciting the support of the Royal Canadian Legion.
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