Senator Gold: Once again, the government wants to see Mr. Badawi reunited with his family. I’m sure that the restoration of diplomatic relations will result in increased advocacy on his behalf. That is certainly our hope.

[English]

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for the question, Senator Miville-Dechêne. As I’ve said many times, the Government of Canada remains very concerned about the case of Raif Badawi, continues to follow it closely, and will continue to defend his cause.

In that regard, the government has raised and continues to raise Mr. Badawi’s case with Saudi Arabia’s highest authorities and it has made several requests for clemency on his behalf. We sincerely hope that Mr. Badawi will be reunited with his family. As for your question, we will bring it to the minister’s attention.