Canada boat to Gaza purchased, named 'Tahrir' and ready to sail

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Canada Boat to Gaza has raised the necessary $300,000 required to purchase a boat to sail to Gaza as part of Freedom Flotilla 2.
The Canadian Boat to Gaza campaign announces today the successful conclusion of arrangements to purchase and register a boat to carry the Canadian delegation to Gaza. The boat's name Tahrir (Liberation in Arabic) has been chosen to honour the square in Cairo that was the focus of the democratic uprising that has spread hope across the Middle East.

The Tahrir will sail with vessels from France, USA, UK, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Greece, Turkey, and other countries, as part of the Freedom Flotilla II. This international movement in solidarity with the Palestinian people turns the spotlight on the blockade of Gaza and its 1.6 million residents whose access to resources and ability to travel has been unilaterally impeded by the illegal Israeli blockade.

Fundraising for this campaign has been shared by thousands of Canadians from coast to coast to coast, and with the momentum building for this project we expect to secure the remaining amount needed over the next few weeks of fundraising. "We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of individuals and groups across the country" said Wendy Goldsmith of the Canadian Boat to Gaza Fundraising Committee, adding that "we are sure that with our boat now a reality, the community support will come through to raise the remaining funds needed."

The 25-metre Tahrir will carry approximately 45 people: delegates from across the country, high profile Canadians plus journalists. As well, the Canadian campaign has partnered with campaigns from other countries and will carry delegates from Australia, Belgium and Denmark. A new website www.tahrir.ca was launched today to coincide with news of the boat's purchase and will be the site for online donations. more

Canada Boat to Gaza website: http://www2.canadaboatgaza.org

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