Canada expelling Syrian diplomats over Houla massacre, Baird says

OTTAWA - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird says Canada is expelling Syrian diplomats in the wake of the massacre in Houla.

Baird says all remaining diplomats in Ottawa and their families have five days to leave Canada.

As well, another Syrian diplomat waiting to come to Canada will be refused entry.

Baird says Canadians, like other people around the world, were horrified to learn on the weekend about the massacre of more than 100 people, including nearly three dozen children under the age of 10.

Britain said today it is expelling three Syrian diplomats over the massacre and France is sending the Syrian ambassador home.

Other countries have also said they are taking similar actions.

“Canada and our partners are speaking loudly, with one voice, in saying these Syrian representatives are not welcome in our countries while their masters in Damascus continue to perpetrate their heinous and murderous acts," Baird said.

“The ongoing violence must stop immediately, and the Syrian people must be free to realize for themselves a better, brighter future. Canada remains committed to working with the international community to find solutions to this crisis.”