We, as Canadians, have a big stick where Brenda Martin and Mexico are concerned.

Why don’t we use it? Canadian tourism is a 2x4 not a stick!

Travel advisories, public statements, strongly worded diplomatic letters, legal assistance, personal visits and reassurance have all been conspicuously absent in the mishandling of the Brenda Martin case for the past two years.

I would venture to guess that had Deb Tielman not happened to look up an old friend and W5’s Paula Todd not broken the story, Brenda Martin’s plight in Mexico would never have become public knowledge.

Protection of Canadians can never be left to happenstance.

Ms Guergis’ behaviour when confronted by Paula Todd illustrates political self-interest rather than a wish to work for the greater good. Running away is not what I wish our representative to do.

Furthermore, going to a consular cocktail party when she could have visited Brenda Martin in person just 20 km away, and refusing to speak to Martin on the phone, shows a lack of compassion one would expect from the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs.

When making travel plans to Mexico, think twice and ask yourself, can I count on Helena Guergis if I need help?