OTTAWA - Members of Parliament debate a motion today that will send Canada to war in Iraq — should it pass as widely expected.
The motion, introduced by Prime Minister Stephen Harper, would see Canada contribute fighter jets to carry out air strikes against Islamic extremists in that country.
Canada is also extending its non-combat mission in northern Iraq involving as many as 69 Canadian Forces personnel who are helping to train Iraqis in the fight against Islamic State militants, known as ISIL.
The NDP and Liberals have indicated they will vote against the motion, although it is expected to pass since the Harper Conservatives hold a majority in the House of Commons.
Here are some other events taking place today on and around Parliament Hill:
— Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will speak at a special luncheon event being put on by organizers of the Canada 2020 conference.
— The Supreme Court of Canada hears the federal government's appeal of an Ontario ruling dismissing Clifford Kokopenace's murder conviction on the basis that there were no aboriginals on the jury that decided his fate.
— Proponents of government measures to protect Canada's fresh waters hold a news conference on changes needed to protect and restore the health of Canada's lakes and rivers.
— And newly inducted Justice Clement Gascon will be officially welcomed to sit on the Supreme Court of Canada.
