Denmark takes harder line on terror

Re Terrorism series, Aug. 20-21 Canadians are no doubt benefiting from the detailed series of articles by Michelle Shephard calling for a more humane approach to dealing with terrorists, like Aaron Driver. But her focus on how Denmark deals with this escalating global problem needs to be put into perspective.

While there may be a tolerant policy in the city of Aarhus, Denmark stands out as quite the most intolerant Western democratic country in dealing with the principal victims of the Middle Eastern terrorist crisis — the mainly Muslim refugees who seek better lives in the West.

As the Washington Post has documented, in Denmark the refugees are denied social security benefits, police are free to seize their cash and jewelry, their relatives have to wait for three years — up from one year — to bring family members in, and courageous Danish citizens who aid refugees in allegedly illegal activities are prosecuted.

The government of Denmark also buys advertising in Lebanese newspapers warning refugees they are not to seek solace in Denmark.

Sadly, this hardline approach has widespread support among the Danes. In stark contrast, refugees are welcomed to Canada not only by our governments, but by the vast majority of Canadians.

Raymond Heard, Toronto

Re Terrorism darkens our doorstep, Aug. 18 I was dismayed to read Judith Timson’s article on terrorism in Toronto. I expect, and generally receive, better from the Star. Terrorism poses a statistically insignificant threat to Canadians. Comparing this non-threat Canadians face to the horrors facing Syrians is ridiculous and embarrassing.

The silliest part is that if terrorists want Torontonians to feel fear, this article serves their cause.

Walter Wilson, Guelph, Ont.