Thirty-six Canadian citizens were evacuated from Haiti on Tuesday to the Dominican Republic as part of an assisted departure operation set up by the Canadian government.
The announcement was made by the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underlining Canada’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens in a context where the security situation in Haiti is deteriorating daily.
These assisted departures come as Canada continues to closely monitor the situation in Haiti and prioritize the safety of its citizens in the country.
The assisted departure operation began with six flights evacuating a total of 36 Canadians to the Dominican Republic.
According to information provided by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), Canadians evacuated to the Dominican Republic will be required to continue their journey to their final destination, and to cover their accommodation costs in Santo Domingo. However, financial assistance in the form of emergency loans is available for those who need it.
It is important to note that these assisted departure operations are considered temporary measures and will only continue if the safety and security environment permits, according to Canadian authorities, who will continue to monitor the situation in Haiti and work closely with partners on the ground.
Members of AMC’s Standing Rapid Deployment Team (SRDT) have been mobilized to the region to support operations and provide emergency response, coordination, consular assistance and logistical support.
However, for security reasons, AMC is refraining from commenting or divulging information that could compromise ongoing efforts or endanger the safety of Canadians, according to a Canadian government statement.
For the time being, assisted departures are offered to Canadian citizens in possession of a valid travel document. Nevertheless, Canada continues to work with its partners and allies to explore other options for people who are not included in this group, according to the Canadian government’s press release.
Canadians in Haiti are strongly encouraged to register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and to contact Global Affairs Canada to discuss their situation.
In these volatile times, the Government of Canada also recommends that Canadians in Haiti stay in a safe place, ensure they have sufficient supplies of food, water and fuel, and limit travel if possible. The option of leaving the country safely is also being considered.
The Government of Canada promises to continue issuing regular updates to Canadians in Haiti through its Travel Reports and Warnings, as well as through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.
Canadian citizens interested in leaving Haiti can click on the link below for more information.