Early in June, the story of Mohammed Niaz came to light via Winnipeg’s (very good) Black Rod.
Six days ago Mohammed Niaz was helping Canadian troops in Afghanistan. He was an interpreter travelling with Charlie Company west of Kandahar when they came under attack by Taliban insurgents who had been surprised in the act of setting up an ambush.
Today he’s pleading with Canada to help him. He lost both his legs in the battle and he’s asking us to help him recover from his wounds.
Niaz worked as an interpreter for Canadians for a year and a half. As Canadian troops went on patrol in Panjwai district, he went along — and found himself in his first battle.
Over the weekend, reader “Henry” passed along this update;
Thank you for your e-mail concerning compensation for Mr. Mohammed Niaz.
I am informed that Mr. Niaz’s case is being investigated, and it is our intent that neither he nor his family endure any undue hardship. Please be assured that we will take the appropriate action, not only in the case of Mr. Niaz, but also for any local nationals employed by the Canadian Forces.
Mr. Niaz is receiving excellent medical care at the Canadian-led, multinational hospital in Kandahar. He also continues to receive his salary while he is recovering.
The contribution made by local nationals such as Mr. Niaz is greatly appreciated. We would not be able to do our jobs in some of the most dangerous areas of the world without their willingness to support our effort.
I trust this information is of assistance and thank you again for writing.
Sincerely,
The Honourable Gordon J. O’Connor, PC, MP
Minister of National Defence
Good news, (and thanks again to the readers here for doing this type of legwork and passing these items along that would otherwise be forgotten or stay “under the radar” of the mainstream).
It wasn’t intended, but I hope the aids clowns will read this and understand that other folks suffer tragedy and are helped by a Government that really cares for people. Good for the Harper Government! and without a pile of Toronto PR as well.
In a tragic addendum to this story,the Canadian forces medic that saved his life was killed last week on a patrol 100km outside Kabul.
This government has already made amends in the HepBandC case. I’m confident they will also make some concrete measures with regards to the Aids problem in Africa. I would be a lot happier if they would send in a few teams with some DDT to get rid of malaria in Africa. In some areas of Africa it is a far worse problem than Aids.
I wrote my MP about this, I’m glad to see something was done for this man 🙂
Kate, legwork was an infelicitous turn of phrase.
CBCpravda not reporting this . they are reporting that the conservatives arent sending anyone in to Syria or Hesbo country.
but the socialist contigent will be there.
Dangit doolz, I wuz gonna mention the “legwork” thing.
Bummer.
Thanks for pointing this gem out, Kate.
Screw Mr. Niaz . In the end he is “one of them ” .
It’s fascinating how one’s critical facilities go on hold when one really needs to believe something, isn’t it?
Long ago, when I worked for the (Mulroney) Feds, I had to write letters like this for the Minister. Read this one carefully and look at what it ACTUALLY commits to – not just the fuzzy, feelgoodisms, but the actual commitment.
“joe blow” IS NOT “Joe B.” For everyone’s info.
Much as it pains me to say it, I’m with Balbulican on this: if you’re interested in this story, then you need to keep following it until Mr. Niaz is in a position to carry on with his life. One letter from a staffer to the MND doesn’t qualify as a resolution to his issues. Follow through.
balbulican – Niaz is receiving care, getting paid, and NOT being ignored. Minister O’Connor, aside from being a decent man, understands the strategic value of treating allies properly.
joe blow – by “one of them”, I presume you mean a Moslem. So? Love your enemies, man. Wait…he’s on our side – no blowing up people or chopping off heads. Hate your friends? You need to do some thinking, joe.
“Much as it pains me to say it…”
Why, Damian, you cut me to the quick.
Henry – Careful my friend – joe blow is a troll.
No, Balb, I just beat you to the punch.