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Supporters to press for jailed Canadian's release

The Canadian Press

Latest comment posted at 7:16 AM EST 29/03/08

‘Save Brenda Martin' rally set for Parliament Hill Saturday afternoon; Trenton, Ont., woman has been held in Mexican jail for two years ...Read the full article

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  1. prospector from blackfly country from Canada writes: There are plenty of Canadians in foreign jails around the world. Why is she the centre of attention while the rest are ignored by the media/public?

    A strange situation that warrants more investigation...........
  2. Eric the Red from Uzbekistan writes: Prospector: Name them.
  3. CD W from Canada writes: I was listening to the cbc this a.m. and her buddy decried how we allow countries with separation of powers, that is judicial, executive, legislative to carry out their laws, but we go and negotiate directly with the saudi king. That is the difference, there is no real separation of powers in the Kingdom. So wake up. Now if her buddy was suggesting a little bahksheesh for the mexicans to smooth things over, well would not that be an illegal bribe?
  4. Pete Kauchak, Green Tory from Cascadia, Canada writes: The government shouldn't do anymore for this woman than they do for other Canadians in the same predicament. Just because your face appears on TV more doesn't entitle you to jump the queue.
  5. Erica the Red from Canada writes: I am incredibly offended by the actions of this government. Now someone has leaked confidential consular documents about her case -- which is NOT allowed. Wwhen will Canadians wake up and realize that under Harper, they don't have any rights unless he decides they do?

    He is a dangerous man.
  6. An Thornton from Canada writes: I think that the biggest difference between her and the other Canadians being held in prison is the sure brazen hypocrisy the Mexican government is showing.

    She's a citizen born here in Canada being held on dodgy evidence and the actual guilty person is sitting in jail in the US denying that she had anything to do with it.

    The Mexican police are doing nothing to find the killers of the four murdered Canadians. We need to boycott like what the Australians did with Bali.
  7. Hal West from Kelowna, BC, Canada writes: A simple and effective way for Canadians to get the attention of the Mexican government, is to stop travelling to Mexico for holidays.
  8. Pete Kauchak, Green Tory from Cascadia, Canada writes: Erica the Red from Canada writes: I am incredibly offended by the actions of this government. Now someone has leaked confidential consular documents about her case -- which is NOT allowed. Wwhen will Canadians wake up and realize that under Harper, they don't have any rights unless he decides they do?

    What documents?
  9. Pete Kauchak, Green Tory from Cascadia, Canada writes: Erica the Red from Canada writes: I am incredibly offended by the actions of this government.

    I'm incredibly offended at Brenda Martin for calling every meeting with Government officials a "photo op" while also meeting with former PM Martin etc and not saying a word. I think a lot of Canadians are offended by this. Now she is complaining Guergis did not meet with her. Why? So she can call that a photo op as well?
  10. Gerry Pankhurst from westport ontario, Canada writes: She worked in Mexico without a permit. That, we know. What don't we know beyond the fact her boss - an imprisoned criminal who was convicted in the Mexican courts - swore an affidavit attesting to her innocence? How credible is that? And why did he do it? Hush money perhaps?

    I have no problem with the Canadian government making a request to hasten the trial but that is it. The scenes of her weeping and trying to drag our country into any other arguments on her behalf just don't cut it. That's what lawyers are for. How about her statement that the visit by a government representatives was nothing more than a photo op? She got herself into the scrape let her dig herself out. As for the scenes of her mother crying and pleading for help; what else would we expect her to do? Time for the media and others, who are dedicated to criticizing this country, to move on and hunt for some other perceived scandal to feed the bleeding heart masses..
  11. BEN DOVER from WESTERN CANADA, Canada writes: The Government should be busy governing. And Erica, Canadians do have rights in CANADA. Go illegally into a foreign country and pay the price. The Brenda Martin fan club should be protesting in Mexico if they feel so strong about this.
  12. John Smith from Ottawa, Canada writes: My question is what is the Canadian government actually doing in this case? Whether they are doing something or nothing, they are displaying indifference and this does not look good. I think that Canadians should think twice about going to Mexico, in that the Mexican government and judiciary has presented itself well, and frankly I don't know if I could rely on the Canadian government for any form of help.
  13. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: this is for erik the red: Thousands of Canadians are in jail abroad - many of them for drug-related offences. Being Canadian doesn't exempt you from local laws. If you break the law in another country, you are subject to that country's judicial system.

    Your Canadian citizenship does not mean that you will get preferential treatment, immunity or special protection. Canadian officials can neither protect you from the consequences of your actions nor override the decisions of local authorities. Canadian consular officials can provide assistance and support to Canadians in jail abroad, but they cannot arrange for their release.

    In many countries, illegal drugs are readily available and openly used. Nonetheless, they remain illegal. Canadians get into serious trouble for buying, selling, using or transporting drugs.

    In some countries, you will be charged for being with a person suspected of a crime. When travelling, use common sense. Choose your travelling companions wisely. Do not pick up hitchhikers, and never cross an international border with someone you don't know and trust. Although you may not be carrying anything illegal, you could be implicated by association if your companions are. And as the driver of a vehicle, you could be held responsible for your passengers' misdeeds, even if you knew nothing about them.

    Once accused, a person may be presumed guilty until proven innocent. Being a foreigner or not knowing the local laws is no excuse, any more than it would be in Canada.
  14. Shawn Bull from Canada writes: Excellent peice in another paper today talking about records being released by the government stating they have been in contact multiple times with Martin. They have called and visited repeatedly over the past two years.

    There has even been times when she has denied them to come visit her.

    Much more stories coming put about this lady.
  15. Pete Kauchak, Green Tory from Cascadia, Canada writes: John Smith from Ottawa, Canada writes: My question is what is the Canadian government actually doing in this case? Whether they are doing something or nothing, they are displaying indifference and this does not look good. I think that Canadians should think twice about going to Mexico, in that the Mexican government and judiciary has presented itself well, and frankly I don't know if I could rely on the Canadian government for any form of help.

    What indifference? They are not obligated to report what is going on in every case to anyone just because the media brings attention to it. History has shown it's better to shut up and let the diplomats handle everything. Insulting the Mexican government isn't going to improve her chances for release only worsen them.
  16. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: This is just for 2006: Close to 600 Canadians were detained in foreign countries in 2006, the majority for drugs, immigration and fraud offences, according to federal data obtained by the Toronto Star.

    And Canadians can't always expect the federal government to intervene on their cases, even if they are facing harsh jail conditions. As the Department of Foreign Affairs notes, Canadians are subject to the laws of the country where they are arrested.

    Not surprisingly, the United States tops the list of countries. There were 417 Canadians detained in the United States, followed by 27 in China, 15 in the United Kingdom and 13 in Australia. Rounding out the top 10 were: Japan with 10, Mexico with 9, Taiwan with 7, and Costa Rica, Jamaica and Thailand with 6 apiece.

    The government of Canada can only try to ensure you get a fair trial and (if found guilty) punishment in accordance with the laws of whatever justice system you find yourself in trouble with.
  17. I am a Con from Canada writes: Pete Kauchak, Green Tory from Cascadia, Canada writes: The government shouldn't do anymore for this woman than they do for other Canadians in the same predicament.

    Exactly, our government shouldn't do anything. If Canadians want to travel ...tough luck!

    Finally we have a PM that stands up for Canada!
  18. I am a Con from Canada writes: James C from Shenzhen, China writes:
    The government of Canada can only try to ensure you get a fair trial and (if found guilty) punishment in accordance with the laws of whatever justice system you find yourself in trouble with.

    Harper is right...we shouldn't even do that! if your in trouble tuff luck!
  19. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: for those who feel the canadian government does nothing to help canadians in trouble abroad (please note the final paragraph of this post):

    Prime Minister Stephen Harper and two of his most trusted ministers have for more than a year been quietly pressuring the Bulgarian government to transfer home to Canada a Canadian businessman jailed overseas since 1996 on charges of fraud and embezzlement.

    Despite numerous diplomatic efforts - Bulgaria refuses to transfer a man it once labelled an international swindler. As a result, Canada is turning up the heat, invoking for the first time an international treaty that forces the unco-operative Bulgarian government into mediation talks.

    Canada's efforts to win a transfer came to an abrupt end in 2005 when Liberal MP Dan McTeague, then the parliamentary secretary to the minister of foreign affairs, wrote Kapoustin a devastating letter.
    "Canadian officials cannot seek preferential treatment for you or try to exempt you from the due process of local law," the letter said. "Regretfully, there is no further possible action to be taken ... by the government of Canada."
  20. Pete Kauchak, Green Tory from Cascadia, Canada writes: I am a Con from Canada writes:

    Exactly, our government shouldn't do anything. If Canadians want to travel ...tough luck!

    Finally we have a PM that stands up for Canada!

    I didn't say she didn't deserve help. I said she doesn't deserve to be treated differently than others in the same position whose faces DON"T appear on television.
  21. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: the subject of my post at 11:18 is michael kapoustin of penticton, BC.
  22. ken g from Canadian in Cuernavaca, Canada writes: She is no news here in Mexico.
  23. Pete Kauchak, Green Tory from Cascadia, Canada writes: James C from Shenzhen, China writes:

    Canada's efforts to win a transfer came to an abrupt end in 2005 when Liberal MP Dan McTeague, then the parliamentary secretary to the minister of foreign affairs, wrote Kapoustin a devastating letter.
    "Canadian officials cannot seek preferential treatment for you or try to exempt you from the due process of local law," the letter said. "Regretfully, there is no further possible action to be taken ... by the government of Canada."

    Send this to "I am a Con from Canada". He thinks Liberals are better at representing Canadians abroad. Clearly the evidence is to the contrary.
  24. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: Part 1:

    As much as we like to grumble about the Canadian justice system, it sure looks good compared to the judiciary in much of the rest of the world. Brenda Martin is not the only Canadian to get entangled in the court procedures of another country.

    But there's only so much the Canadian government can do to help citizens in legal trouble abroad, warns Aurel Braun, a professor of international relations at the University of Toronto. It can send a diplomatic note of protest, which Ottawa has already done in Martin's case, and try to exert other forms of political pressure like meeting with high-level officials, as Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Bernier did yesterday with his Mexican counterpart in Washington.

    "In this case, the potential for helping her is significant because we do have a good relationship, I believe, with the Mexican government," says Braun.

    But some countries are insulted when other states protest the treatment of their citizens abroad. And in those circumstances, political pressure can backfire, he says. "You really are at risk whenever you travel. We have to smarten up. It's a nasty world out there," he says. "As flawed as our police forces are and as slow as our judicial system is, by international standards, it's one of the best."
  25. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: Part 2:

    WE'RE NOT 'CHARMED'

    Too often, Canadians travel the world as if they live a "charmed existence," thinking they're somehow immune to the vagaries of the criminal justice system in other countries, he (Aurel Braun, a professor of international relations at the University of Toronto) says.

    In Singapore, you could be lashed for tossing a piece of chewing gum onto the street and in Cuba, you could be arrested for engaging in even mild political activity, notes Braun.

    Canadians can also get into trouble if they're in a country that doesn't have a high regard for the law, where corruption is endemic and where the judiciary isn't particularly capable, he says.

    "It's not that (Canada) shouldn't do anything. It is only that if you run afoul of some sort of local regulations in a system that is not transparent, not totally competent and not independent or honest, you are in deep, deep trouble," warns Braun. "You could be out of luck." If you're in trouble abroad, a lot depends on what kind of relationship Canada has with that country, he adds.

    Only heads of state and officials with diplomatic immunity have the clout to avoid arrest in other states. Outside of that, you're at the mercy of local law, says Braun. You can get consular help but that's about it.
  26. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: Part 3:

    BACKLOGGED JUDICIARY

    And while it's appalling that Martin has been in jail for so long, it's not unusual, says Maxwell Cameron, a University of British Columbia poli-sci professor.

    "In general in Latin America, and Mexico is no exception, the judiciary is often backlogged and you can languish in jail for long periods of time without ever being brought before a judge," he says.

    Some are able to hire good lawyers or bribe their way to the front of the queue, he says. The others wilt in "a Kafkaesque legal system."

    Even if you've done nothing wrong, Cameron adds, "you can still be (arrested) if you're unfortunate enough to be in the wrong place at the wrong time."
  27. Bill M from Canada writes: Found an article from August 2007 in the Star that talks about 600 Canadians being incarcerated in foreign countries in 2006, and that there are around 2800 actvie cases of Canadians jailed abroad.

    http://www.thestar.com/printArticle/246543
  28. Dan L from Canada writes: Erica the Red wrote:

    "I am incredibly offended by the actions of this government. Now someone has leaked confidential consular documents about her case -- which is NOT allowed. When will Canadians wake up and realize that under Harper, they don't have any rights unless he decides they do?

    He is a dangerous man."

    Really? Perhaps before leaping to blame this alleged release of confidential information on big bad old Stephen Harper you might want to question whether Brenda Martin's camp actually did it! (let's not forget that any "confidential correspondence" has a sender and a recipient, either of whom can "leak" it's content!!)

    Another possibility is that some frustrated staffer in foreign affairs simply got fed up with the endless accusations of inaction and in a lapse of judgment disclosed the information to try and set the record straight!

    One way or another, many Canadians are getting fed up with the "Brenda Martin saga" and are rapidly losing any sympathy they might have for her. After reading the Toronto Star article about this document and the details it provides into her treatment all I can say is let this be a lesson, involve the media at your own peril as the ploy can easily backfire as it seems to be doing here!
  29. I am a Con from Canada writes: I also like how the Conservatives are attacking Brenda Martin's reputation. It was none of Brenda Martin's business that Helena Guergis was at a cocktail party and couldn't come and visit her.
  30. John Connor from Canada writes: BEN DOVER from WESTERN CANADA, Canada writes: The Government should be busy governing. And Erica, Canadians do have rights in CANADA. Go illegally into a foreign country and pay the price. The Brenda Martin fan club should be protesting in Mexico if they feel so strong about this.

    Assuming they have their travel documents in order...otherwise, she may end up with some company, unless that's what she wants.
  31. I am a Con from Canada writes: Dan L from Canada writes:One way or another, many Canadians are getting fed up with the "Brenda Martin saga" and are rapidly losing any sympathy they might have for her.

    Canadians were completely peed off over how she questioned Jason Kenney's motives.
  32. Rose rcgs from Hamilton, Canada writes: Monday, 24 March 2008 Brenda Martin's former boss says Mexican officials are using the jailed Canadian woman as collateral for his unpaid debt. In an interview with The Canadian Press, Alyn Waage said Monday his lawyers struck a deal with Mexican officials the day after his arrest in 2001, agreeing to pay $500,000 for his freedom The prosecutor and the federal judge there -- they're involved in this -- feel that they're owed half-a-million dollars that I was supposed to pay them before I got out of jail, which I didn't pay," he said. "Until they get that half-a-million dollars, I don't think they're going to let them go. They're holding them for ransom." Waage has backed her claim in a sworn affidavit. He says no one -- not even his wife -- knew of the scheme He was to meet them in Belize to paid them off. How is this woman suppose to get a fair trial, There Justice system is corrupted, and she is not guity. I think more than a Travellers advisory needs to be in place. Harper should stand by a person who is not guilty in a country with a corrupted justice system. We had 4 murdered tourists with blame on other tourists, the responsibilty and accountibilty of the Mexician goverment leaves a bad taste in my mouth. I did love the trips I had there but you will never see me in that country again.
  33. Darla Sycamore from Toronto, Canada writes: This story is starting to really irritate me.
    Would there be as much attention if the person detained was a crying 30-year old male African-American Canadian citizen who is also a Muslim?
    I still do not know if Ms Martin is guilty or not. Mexico should try her and as soon as possible. Clearly human rights in Mexico need closer examination. How many of their own people are being detained like this? No thinking person believes in long detention without trial. I would favour a UN discussion on this issue and an international agreement. BUT one must first agree to this principle whatever the crime that the accused is supposed to have committed. Under Mexican laws arrested people are presumed guilty until they prove they are innocent. Look at the travel advisory on our Canadian government site where this is CLEARLY stated. If you don't like that do not go to Mexico and certainly not as an illegal immigrant!!!
    I would say that our government has spent a lot of effort on this case only to be accused by Ms. Martin that any efforts are just a photo op -really!! Sometimes she could not see visitors because she was busy.
  34. Dan L from Canada writes: I am a Con from Canada wrote:

    "Dan L from Canada writes:One way or another, many Canadians are getting fed up with the "Brenda Martin saga" and are rapidly losing any sympathy they might have for her.

    Canadians were completely peed off over how she questioned Jason Kenney's motives."

    WRONG, who gives a hoot whether she criticizes a politician, we all do constantly and it comes with the job. What is pissing people off he's her utter lack of respect for those who ARE trying to help her, and CAN'T defend themselves against her media drive by slurs. One minute she's on the verge of killing herself in despair, the next she's participating in a beauty pageant! One minute she's complaining about the "terrible conditions" in the jail, the next we hear she's allowed to pick and choose what she wants to eat! So of course now her camp are up in arms because details showing she's NOT being ignored nor mistreated are leaking out!

    When her knight in shinning armor McTeague (who as James C revealed actually told another Canadian imprisoned abroad to "suck it up" when he had his hands on the levers power) comes by to visit reporters in tow she's fine with that, and wails about current govt MPs not visiting her, then alleges in advance any who might consider visiting her would only be doing it for photo op purposes!

    The more she trashes about, the more she hurts her case. Instead of trying to get her sent back home, the govt should be putting pressure on the Mexican govt to expedite her trial, then we can pay attention to the elephant in the room, is she innocent after all?!?
  35. I am a Con from Canada writes: Dan L from Canada writes:The more she trashes about, the more she hurts her case. Instead of trying to get her sent back home, the govt should be putting pressure on the Mexican govt to expedite her trial, then we can pay attention to the elephant in the room, is she innocent after all?!?

    The evidence the Mexican's have against her is overwhelming. She was a maid for a Con artist that swindled millions of dollars.
  36. Madder than Hell Taxpayer from Canada, Canada writes: Canadian adults who travel outside the U.S. and Canada do so at their own risk. If Brenda Martin was working for a guy running an illegal business as his cook she was close enough to recongize signs his business might not be legit. Worse still -- she knowingly worked illegally in Mexico! Mexico, Jamaica, all the Caribbean vacation "paradise" spots are known for corrupt police who demand bribes and steal from tourists, as well as residents of those places that also steal from and murder tourists. If Brenda Martin took those risks, she should now accept the consequences. It's not the responsibility of any taxpayer funded federal agencies, or the government as a whole, to ride to her rescue as though she's a poor damsel in distress through no fault of her own. Grow up! Make respoonsible decisions on where you're going to work if you're doing it illegally, or taking a vacaion in some dangerous locations. It's not news to anyone that tourists are seen as fair game for thieves in poor countries with corrupt police and officials. Canada's responsibility is to represent the national interest, not those of some pathetic woman who's now threatening suicide. Going to Mexico to work illegally was her first suicidal step. Now, she can threaten or even act on it if she wishes. But she's living the consequences of her own actions. We cannot jeopardize our national interests with any foreign government just for the sake of one hysterical person and their friends. The national government does not exist just to rescue fools from themselves. Our government has great obligations to the country as a whole.
  37. BEN DOVER from WESTERN CANADA, Canada writes: I just saw this morning's T.V. interview with Brenda Martin and also her Liberal sponsor, Dan Mc Tague, who continues to try to score political points. I must say that after seeing Brenda's latest interview I am much more interested in her story, and hope that I can get an answer to my question. Did she win, or where did she place in the Beauty Contest she entered in prison last year?
  38. I am a Con from Canada writes: Madder than Hell Taxpayer from Canada writes:Canada's responsibility is to represent the national interest, not those of some pathetic woman who's now threatening suicide. Going to Mexico to work illegally was her first suicidal step.

    Agreed. She should have known working in Mexico was suicidal.
  39. J. Bergin from Canada writes: Keep her in jail and let her face the music. Once all the facts are out, you can bet that she will not be the innocent and naive person she and her supporters want everyone to believe that she is. People should start asking questions, such as why does a cook who works for one year get a $24,000 severance package from her employer (the convicted criminal)....most Canadians have to work for 15 to 20 years to get that. Her side of the story has too many questions that have not been asked.
  40. Nancy Wilson from N.Ontario, Canada writes: Rose rcgs,
    Are you actually
    taking the word of a criminal who swindled people out of millions of dollars?
    Brenda Martin deserves a fair trial,that's it.
    She should not just be "released",as her supporters want.
    She has criminal charges laid against her.
    A trial will determine whether or not she is guilty,not the press,or her supporters.
    We already know for a fact that she was working illegally.
    The laws seem to be of little importance to her,so why just presume she's innocent?
  41. I am a Con from Canada writes: J. Bergin from Canada writes: Keep her in jail and let her face the music. Once all the facts are out, you can bet that she will not be the innocent and naive person she and her supporters want everyone to believe that she is. People should start asking questions, such as why does a cook who works for one year get a $24,000 severance package from her employer (the convicted criminal)....most Canadians have to work for 15 to 20 years to get that.

    Her idiot boss said that he gave her that money because he was swimming in millions of dollars of swindled cash, and 24 thousand was like pennies for him. Although the Mexicans have no proof, like you I think she's guilty.
  42. Gardiner Westbound from Canada writes:
    Two years ago Red China imprisoned Canadian citizen Huseyin Celil. There are no reports Dan McTeague or other troughers extended their concern to Mr. Celil by telephoning or visiting him. Perhaps Mexico's weather is better for grandstanding in March.
  43. I am a Con from Canada writes: Gardiner Westbound from Canada writes:

    Actually the Libtards demanded action be taken, but Harper told them to bugoff. Mackay eventually went to speak about the case, but thankfully it was too late.
  44. Nancy Wilson from N.Ontario, Canada writes: I am a Con,
    You're so full of shi# with all your lies.
    You've chosen an appropriate handle,con man.
  45. I am a Con from Canada writes: Nancy Wilson from N.Ontario, Canada writes: I am a Con,
    You're so full of shi# with all your lies.
    You've chosen an appropriate handle,con man.

    Screw you libtard! If Brenda Martin is so innocent, why is she accepting help from the Liberals? remember Adscam!
  46. True North from Canada writes: The Harper government's recent attempts to smear Ms. Martin's name rather than fighting for Canadian citizen who has not even been charged is perhaps one of the most despicable things witnessed from this government.

    Harper's government cannot be trusted.
  47. True North from Canada writes: Nancy Wilson from N.Ontario, Canada writes: She has criminal charges laid against her.

    **

    You are totally incorrect - Ms. Martin has yet to be charged with any crime and has been in prison going on 3 years. You are presenting false information as fact.
  48. Shawn Bull from Canada writes: Copied from the Toronto Star today: Mar 28, 2008 04:30 AM OTTAWA–Canadian officials have regularly visited and telephoned Brenda Martin since her imprisonment in Mexico two years ago, contrary to claims by critics, a government report indicates. A Foreign Affairs Department report provides a detailed account of contacts between the Canadian consulate in Guadalajara and the jailed woman since her February 2006 arrest. The document also offers a glimpse at life in the Puente Grande women's jail, including Martin's skirmishes with inmates and weekly telephone calls to her mother. Consular officials spoke often with Martin, 51, by telephone, sometimes several times a day, and visited the prison at least a dozen times. The report, obtained by The Canadian Press, bolsters the federal government's claim of regular dialogue with Martin and Mexican officials. It's not known why the point-form chronology was created. Foreign Affairs didn't immediately return a call. But Liberal MP Dan McTeague wants Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Bernier to investigate how the report was obtained by the media. McTeague says Foreign Affairs has violated Martin's privacy rights by allegedly leaking the report. The report shows Martin rebuffed officials' attempts to contact her on at least five occasions. "Called warden re visit and was informed Ms. Martin did not wish a visit," says one entry. The entries suggest a troubled woman who talks of suicide, has been "aggressive with fellow inmates" and was "rude" to cafeteria staff on one occasion.
  49. I am a Con from Canada writes: Shawn Bull from Canada writes: "Called warden re visit and was informed Ms. Martin did not wish a visit," says one entry. The entries suggest a troubled woman who talks of suicide, has been "aggressive with fellow inmates" and was "rude" to cafeteria staff on one occasion.

    Rude to cafeteria staff? After they've been feeding her for almost 3 years? The Conservatives are right to leak this report...it puts things into perspective.
  50. Tim Fromhere from Cd. del Carmen, Mexico writes: I don't know much about this case, just what I've seen in a couple of G&M articles. However, I have to wonder if the Americans have anything to do with her continued detention. They do put pressure on the Mexicans to detain people they are after, and her boss is in jail in the U.S.A. I don't know if there is a connection or not, but I would not be surprised if there were.

    All that a country's diplomats can do when their citizens are arrested in a foreign country is monitor whether or not that country upholds its laws. If they don't, about all they can do is issue a formal protest. There are some more serious options, such as severing diplomatic relations or threatening war, but I sincerely doubt that most Canadians would be in favour of such actions.
  51. P cheng from ottawa, Canada writes: prospector from blackfly country from Canada writes: There are plenty of Canadians in foreign jails around the world. Why is she the centre of attention while the rest are ignored by the media/public?

    A strange situation that warrants more investigation...........
    ===============>
    Sample- More noise = more attention = force governement to help.

    Does it help the situation? I don't think so. When you have international affair, why Mexican needs to do this in higher priority.

    Do you think that she does not know her boss is illegal doing the business. I have some doubt.
  52. David Griffith from NS, Canada writes: First this womans own actions, and now further facts, have eroded any credibility she had. Those who are pursuing this now are doing it purely for partisan gain.
  53. Rose rcgs from Hamilton, Canada writes: True North from Canada writes: The Harper government's recent attempts to smear Ms. Martin's name rather than fighting for Canadian citizen who has not even been charged is perhaps one of the most despicable things witnessed from this government.

    Harper's government cannot be trusted
    I agree with True North
    Especially when his aids are partying in Mexico as suppose to visiting her.

    The main point is the justice system in Mexico. Her right to a fair Trial. If the system is corrupted, how is the trial thus fair. and when is it to occur. 10 yrs later. Harper needs to speak out to Mexcio's president on the facts that we are finding about the corruption of his prosecutor and the federal judge involved.

    The Cons want her to look bad because, it already showed how poorly there goverment handled the situation.
  54. Keith Conley from Calgary, Canada writes: Shawn Bull; I read the article in the Star, one needs to go in their website, and click on Canada at the top and voila there it

    Will the G&M eventually print this also.

    Joyce Conley
  55. A Canuck from Ottawa, Canada writes: At first I felt sorry for this woman, but the more we are exposed, the more it sounds like she's the cause of most of her trouble...
  56. Gerry Pankhurst from westport ontario, Canada writes: She was interviewed on CTV at noon. The more she says the more she does to trash government assistance and alienate anyone who really pays attention. Liberal member McReague just stokes the fire.
    I would not render one iota of assistance beyond what she has received. I have the distict feeling this affair is going to backfire.
  57. Nancy Wilson from N.Ontario, Canada writes: True North,
    From CBC news:Martin is charged with money laundering in connection with the activities of her former employer, who is serving a 10-year jail sentence in the United States for internet fraud.
  58. p lailey from vancouver, Canada writes: True North from Canada writes: "Nancy Wilson from N.Ontario, Canada writes: She has criminal charges laid against her.

    **

    You are totally incorrect - Ms. Martin has yet to be charged with any crime and has been in prison going on 3 years. You are presenting false information as fact. "

    Actually, I believe she has been charged. What she has not yet had is her trial.
  59. William Ross from Victoria BC, Canada writes: I hear that this lady was offered a way by pleading guilty to a minor charge of receiving stolen money (which she did) and that way she could come back to canada and probably get time off and be out in a few months and guess what she said : NO. What is this lady an idiot or what (if this is true). Our gov't has bent over backwards to help this lady and all they get is grief for it so I say to !@#$ with her!
  60. Classical Liberal from Toronto, Canada writes: She is just a nobody, with an overinflated ego. She is probaly very excited that people are talking about her, and her story gets all this undeserved attention. And lefties love her because they always love crooks and losers.
  61. Charles Brown from Vancouver, BC, Canada writes: prospector from blackfly country from Canada writes: There are plenty of Canadians in foreign jails around the world. Why is she the centre of attention while the rest are ignored by the media/public?

    A strange situation that warrants more investigation...........

    * Posted 28/03/08 at 9:50 AM EDT | Alert an Editor | Link to Comment

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    She is white, she is from the centre of the universe (Ontario) and she is probably Liberal and therefore, the Liberal media (G&M and CTV) are devoting daily coverage to her cause. She spent two years in a Mexican jail without a trial and now the priority for our government in Ottawa, is to press the Mexican government to give her a speedy trial date.
  62. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: "True North from Canada writes: Nancy Wilson from N.Ontario, Canada writes: She has criminal charges laid against her.

    **

    You are totally incorrect - Ms. Martin has yet to be charged with any crime and has been in prison going on 3 years. You are presenting false information as fact."

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    the CBC reported some time ago that Martin is charged with money laundering in connection with the activities of her former employer, who is serving a 10-year jail sentence in the United States for internet fraud. CTV reports today that Martin is in a Guadalajara jail on charges of money laundering.

    true north, do you really know the facts?

    the globe and mail article doesnt point it out (other media sources do) but Paul Macklin (of the save brenda fund and organizer of this rally), is the Liberal candidate for Northumberland-Quinte West.
  63. Nancy Wilson from N.Ontario, Canada writes: Where's True North to admit his/her error?
    It is YOU providing false information,not me.
  64. M.Y. Twocents from Canada writes: part 1 A two penny opera from the Canadian Press-ed Ham A story is circulating in the Texas press of a covert Canadian operation into Mexico to rescue a detained Canadian. A masked member of the team, who called himself ‘Big Dan’ and asked to be left un-named, recounted details of the daring, night time operation. At approximately 0030 hrs Saturday, the team assembled at a small airfield outside of Harlingen, Texas. There, they boarded their rented, stealth helicopter and proceeded into Mexico, flying at cactus-top level to avoid Mexican radar. At 0430 the helicopter was put into whisper mode and descended into the courtyard of Puente Grandiose prison. The team moved quickly from the copter as one member had suffered terribly from air-sickness. Once in the courtyard, the team moved unseen to the target building. Listening quietly they were able to recognize the detainee’s plaintiff calls for help—“Harper…Harper… get your fat a$$ down here….you G** Da** Son of a Bitc*”!!! Making their way into a dark corridor the team moved towards the pleading voice. In a matter of seconds they were disoriented and lost. Seeking direction from the team leader they asked ‘should we go on or go back?’—the frazzled leader shot back- “do you think it’s easy to make priorities??” at that point the 2IC moved forward, glared at the leader and said “follow me”—the team responded. Within minutes they were outside the locked cell that housed the demure detainee. Using C-5 stealth plastique they quickly and quietly made short work of the door lock and attached wall. The dazzed and demure detainee was pulled from the debris and the team moved out towards the waiting stealth helicopter. After searching for what seemed an eternity, the team spotted the copter and began walking nonchalantly towards it. ( Big Dan recalled how 3IC was moving along quite smartly in his best 'John Wayne' sashay)
  65. M.Y. Twocents from Canada writes: part 2 A two-penny opera from the Canadian Press-ed Ham

    Shots suddenly rang out, spouts of dirt straddling the team; they quickened their pace to a deliberate walk but the menacing stream of red-hot lead persisted. Suddenly, the short team member dropped his pants, and, in a professorial tone, informed his mates that he could swim and run much faster without his pants, he then darted for the blurred outline of the waiting stealth copter. The team followed his lead. Bullets were now bouncing off parked cars, building walls and chimneys as the gun-tower crew were overcome with uncontrollable laughter.
    A fist-fight of sorts developed at the copter door as the team tried several times to board en masse. Finally aboard, the copter lept from the ground and sped towards Harlingen at cactus-top level. Weary team members collapsed and drifted into themselves as the droning engines gave them some respite from reality.
  66. M.Y. Twocents from Canada writes: part 3 A two-penny opera from the Canadian Press-ed Ham

    Arriving at Harlingen the exhausted and half-naked but exhilerated team clambered down from their wingless conveyance. Towels were quickly provided to the team as they moved towards the lights of the press briefing area.
    After a brief moment of light banter and waving, the leader moved to the podium and asked 2IC to bring the ex-detainee forward. 2IC quickly turned to the still half-naked 3IC and asked him to bring the ex-detainee forward. 3IC moved slowly to the podium, produced a very wide but straight smile, and in a mixture of words and sniffles he explained the terrible ending. 3IC had approched the seated ex-detainee and asked, in his best Churchillian voice, if she had a light for his victory cigar. It was at this point the detainee inexplicably hurled herself from the cabin and into a waiting cactus. In tears, 3IC explained how painful it was to watch her extract herself from the cactus, particularly in the swiftly swirling sand and first slashes of a new Mexican sunrise….
    (Apparently there will be no public enquiry into this incident)
  67. mike mc from miramichi NB, Canada writes: Rose Rcgs from Hamilton, thanks for posting the info. I hope all persons condemning Brenda Martin take the time to read it. Funny how her boss was arrested in 2001 but Mexico only got around to arresting Brenda in 2006. Why so long if she was guilty? Tends to lend credence to her bosses story. I would like to see Canadian Govt ask that she be charged with whatever Mexico thinks she did and a trial held. Govt should be able to insist on that. Millions are being spent on lawyers for our little Omar Kadr. Appeals to the Supreme Court cost money and his family sure isn’t footing the legal bill with their welfare cheques. But alas nothing to help this lady. Perhaps we could take some of money being spent on our innocent little assassin and hire a lawyer for this lady
  68. M.Y. Twocents from Canada writes: Our apologies to anyone offended by the two-penny opera story but here at Canadian Press-ed Ham we don't make the news, we just extrude it...
  69. John G from Ottawa, Canada writes: So Martin and her supporters complain to any reporter willing to listen how she's been left to languish in a Mexican jail for 2 years, seemingly with no help.

    When the government releases a report that contradicts her story and points out that they've in fact been doing what they can to help her all along, her entourage b1tches and moans that her privacy has been violated.

    My sympathy for this woman's plight is shrinking by the hour.
  70. Wilf Kruggel from Canada writes: I have worked overseas since 1978 and folks, not once did I get into trouble. Conduct yourself like a civilized human being and the Mexico, India and China type deals just do not happen unless you are trying to get away with something. It serves you right if you are. And to the Martin lady's mother "bawling" on CTV the other morning, lady, just keep "bawling", you sound just like an imature child that just lost her marbles. Bawl somewhere else. The last thing that our Canada's foreign affairs should be bothered with is all of you whinners. Tell your daughter to look to the Mexicans for help, Wilf
  71. I am a Con from Canada writes: John G from Ottawa, Canada writes: So Martin and her supporters complain to any reporter willing to listen how she's been left to languish in a Mexican jail for 2 years, seemingly with no help.

    When the government releases a report that contradicts her story and points out that they've in fact been doing what they can to help her all along, her entourage b1tches and moans that her privacy has been violated.

    The government didn't release the report...that would be illegal you libtard... and Haper didn't do any such thing !!!
  72. J. Bergin from Canada writes: So now that the report and facts have been made public and confirmed by Ms Martin on CTV (who admitted that she has been visited by Canadian Diplomatic officials 20 times and turned them down for visits on other occasions), it clearly shows that she has been getting help from the Government all along while lying to the media and Canadian public .....so what else have you been lying about Brenda?? Your support is disappearing fast.
  73. eLysa Duff from toronto, Canada writes: So why is it so difficult, and ultimately costly for foreign Nationals to new immigrants to accept that they are subject to the laws where they are arrested here?
    Does the Martin case go beyond the point of rampant 'dump-trucking' legal abuse - (or assbackwards gov't self-promo to be congratulated in the end of their game) all in the name of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms? Or is this really a massive chess manouver on behalf of Canada's current political power to ensure trade negotiations with Mexico?
    Beyond that, are we not (specifically those who have signed onto these globalized ,commerce treaties) ALL bound by International Law to have the right to a fair and timely trial?
    Or is that just a myth being tossed around the blackberries while driving?
  74. eLysa Duff from toronto, Canada writes: And I must add, most of you who are already on the bandwagon to condemn Brenda have probably never gone through anything related to her experience and how to cope with it.
    Ms. Martin is not the only one to hit the news with extradition issues from other countries - justice is helping other Canadian citizens right this moment. But what IS IT with you people making judgements on the case without all the facts and then solely rely your opinions based on media or political posturing? (P.S. G@M thanks for this forum)
    She is a human being is she not?
  75. Wilf Kruggel from Canada writes: eLysa Duff, you sound like a typical whinner. What nobody in Canada knows is what did she do to get her in this trouble????? Like I said in a previous post, I have worked overseas since 1978 and not once did I
  76. Wilf Kruggel from Canada writes: eLysa, not once did I get in trouble. I do not have an ounce of respect for this Martin lady or her "bawling " mother on CTV, Wilf
  77. eLysa Duff from toronto, Canada writes: Wilf, you're still basing your assumptions on childish name-calling - your working overseas in '78 has little to do with the complex legal problem that we are dealing with now. I am sorry for your plight in '78 but we are talking about Ms. Martin and how the story has been exposed, vilified, abused, and unmitigated NOW. Nothing will come to light until a fair trial is set.
    Call me liberal, call me (true Conservatative) or NDP or Green - But Never ever call me a whinner.
  78. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: "eLysa Duff from toronto, Canada writes: And I must add, most of you who are already on the bandwagon to condemn Brenda have probably never gone through anything related to her experience and how to cope with it. Ms. Martin is not the only one to hit the news with extradition issues from other countries - justice is helping other Canadian citizens right this moment. But what IS IT with you people making judgements on the case without all the facts"

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    many of the facts that seemed to be missing were ones that brenda martin herself left out when she told her story originally. that she'd been abandoned by the canadian government, we now know that isnt true. other missing facts were omitted by this newspaper but reported elsewhere.
  79. Nancy Wilson from N.Ontario, Canada writes: elysa duff,
    This woman used the media to lie to the public when she said she'd had no help from our Govt.
    It turns out they had been attempting to help her right from the start.
    She wailed away these lies to the entire Country through the media.
    And now you wonder,why some are feel little support for her now?
    Most people don't like being duped.
  80. J. Bergin from Canada writes: Instead of digging a tunnel to escape, Ms Martin thought she could get the Canadian Public and Media to help her escape from the Mexican legal system....but it's not going to work. Ms Martin will have to face her day in court and I for one could not be happier.
  81. John Connor from Canada writes: Gardiner Westbound from Canada writes:
    Two years ago Red China imprisoned Canadian citizen Huseyin Celil. There are no reports Dan McTeague or other troughers extended their concern to Mr. Celil by telephoning or visiting him. Perhaps Mexico's weather is better for grandstanding in March.

    That, and it's doubtful that his protesting in Mexico would get him shot as easily as it might in another foreign country. The guy is grandstanding at the expense of taxpayers and the Mexican authorities.

    Is her situation troubled, most likely, is she responsible for a lot of it, I'm thinking more and more so by the day. Her 15 minutes should have been up over an hour ago. Time to face the music in a Mexican court.
  82. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: "Gardiner Westbound from Canada writes: Two years ago Red China imprisoned Canadian citizen Huseyin Celil. There are no reports Dan McTeague or other troughers extended their concern to Mr. Celil by telephoning or visiting him. Perhaps Mexico's weather is better for grandstanding in March."

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    actually when the husein celil trial was ongoing, people on this forum (and elsewhere in canada) were claiming that PM Harper was ruining the canada-china business relationship because he was up front with the chinese about respecting mr celil's rights to a fair trial. and one of the reasons mr celil only received life imprisonment in china is because of the focus the PM put on the chinese at that time.

    are those same posters i noted above the same ones now complaining that martin in mexico isnt getting enough help? when in fact she really is...
  83. Mrs. Whiggins from Canada writes: Let me get this right. Releasing of the report by the government would be illegal?

    Good thing the government wants to get to the source. There is NO room at the Inn for crooked politicians.
  84. Mrs. Whiggins from Canada writes: Good thing you all aren't joshing about killings of Canadians in foreign lands that are never investigated. That would be a shame, especially since the Canadian government is completely ineffectual in the arena.

    Is this 'punching above our weight' Canada?
  85. Mrs. Whiggins from Canada writes: That woman Nancy Wilson sounds to me like trying to dupe someone. I recognize the script. It's from myCampaign and has handy-dandy little tools for those who cannot put a sentence together to save their life, but are dying to try.
  86. Mrs. Whiggins from Canada writes: It is so heart-warmingly Canadian to read on these pages the outpouring of support for Canadians lost in the mean streets or prisons of the fabulous tourists spots of our Allies. There but for the Grace of God Go I: the mantra of most of the mobile posters or poseurs.

    Brings a tear to my eye. sniff
  87. Emma Hawthorne from Canada writes: As Ms Martin remains behind bars in Mexico, and the only way Mexico will feel pressure to call for her release is if tourism goes down, we should be supporting a boycott and taking a look at what defence she put in. From what I gather from media stories, as she couldn't understand Spanish or Mexican law, she didn't put in any kind of meaningful defence. This aspect needs to be assessed right away! Perhaps it's not too late.
  88. prospector from blackfly country from Canada writes: It sounds to me like Brenda Martin is a manipulator. She is now being aided by the very people/journalists she has duped. They do after all, have to save face.

    This is a non-issue and a waste of time.