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Citytv Explores The Role Of Canadian Foreign Aid In Original Documentary Tough Choices

Citytv [1]In the aftermath of international disaster, Canada is often at the forefront of emergency aid relief – but is the nation’s assistance in crisis situations as effective as it could be? Veteran Citytv [1] news anchor Gord Martineau explores this topic in an original, one-hour documentary, Tough Choices with Gord Martineau: Beyond Disaster.
Premiering Sunday, Decemember 18th at 10pm ET/PT (8pm MT, 9pm CT) on Citytv, Beyond Disaster follows Martineau and GlobalMedic founder Rahul Singh as they examine Canadian foreign aid systems at work. This documentary is the first of a four-part series co-written and co-produced by Martineau, in which he examines social issues ranging from foreign aid to labour unions.

As a veteran news anchor, Martineau has reported from some of the worst disasters in recent memory. In his extensive coverage of these tragic events, Martineau has witnessed first-hand the work of GlobalMedic, a Canadian relief organization that assists those affected by natural disasters and complex emergencies. Founded by Toronto paramedic Rahul Singh, listed as one of TIME Magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world, GlobalMedic is one of many organizations providing effective relief assistance in third world countries.

“Reporting from the heart of international crises, I’ve learned about the tough decisions behind the type of assistance we can – and should – provide to other countries,” said Gord Martineau, News Anchor, Citytv. “Seeing the direct impact of these relief organizations has shown me how even the simplest efforts can positively affect a community.”tough choices image from 90th Parallel Productions [2]

Throughout this compelling documentary, Martineau follows Singh and the GlobalMedic team to Cambodia to learn about landmine victims and the small ways in which their basic necessities can be improved. Then, the duo travels to Haiti and sheds light on the ongoing challenges for citizens and relief organizations following the earthquake that devastated the country almost two years ago. Beyond Disaster also explores the role of Canadian foreign assistance, the obstacles aid organizations face, the positive outcomes of emergency relief and the importance of fostering independent sustainability following a crisis.

“This thought-provoking, original documentary will resonate with viewers who have a keen interest in the issues that impact Canadians at home and abroad,” said Claire Freeland, Director of Development and Production, Rogers Media Television. “With his extensive experience covering the news from a local and national perspective, Gord poignantly brings these compelling Canadian stories to the foreground in Beyond Disaster.”

Tough Choices with Gord Martineau: Beyond Disaster is directed by Karen Pinker, produced/written by Gord Martineau and Karen Pinker. Gordon Henderson is the executive producer for 90th Parallel Productions Ltd [3].

Tough Choices with Gord Martineau: Beyond Disaster is produced by 90th Parallel Productions Ltd, in association with the Rogers Broadcasting Limited and with the participation of the Canada Media Fund, Rogers Documentary Fund and the Government of Canada – Canadian Film or Video Production Tax Credit Program, and the Ontario Media Development Corporation – Tax Credit Program.