LONDON, Ont. - A Jewish group and the Conservative party are calling on Ottawa to oppose the appointment of a Canadian scholar to a top spot with the United Nations, pegging him as anti-Israeli.
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs says in a statement that it condemns the selection of Western University law professor Michael Lynk as the UN's special rapporteur on human rights in Palestine because of what it calls his long-held and public bias against the Jewish state.
Lynk says he understands there is controversy around his appointment but believes his writings and views are being misrepresented.
He declined further comment but says he would be happy to speak further once he has had the chance to confer with the UN over the details of his new position.
Lynk says he is delighted to be chosen for the role and that he will carry out his responsibilities impartially and in keeping with international law.
Conservative foreign affairs critic Tony Clement called on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to apply pressure against Lynk's selection by the president of the UN Human Rights Council.
