Maher Arar asked to consider book or movie deals.

It is understandable that Arar should want to try and work out family difficulties. Apparently since returning he still suffers from his experiences and has some trouble relating even to his family. His wife was among those who were instrumental in gaining his release from prison in Syria. Arar is certainly right about journalists. They should not be bound to secrecy when sources lie to them and damage the reputation of innocent people as happened in his case.

Maher Arar wants a break before considering a book or movie deal Canadian Press
Published: Saturday, February 17, 2007 Article tools

* * * * VANCOUVER (CP) - A book or movie about Maher Arar's 10-month ordeal in a Damascus prison could be in the works one day, but first the 36-year-old wants to take some time away from the spotlight.

The Syrian-born Canadian spoke to a crowd of 400 students at the University of British Columbia Friday.

"Contrary to what many believe, I value my privacy and haven't had time to sit down and think (about a movie or book deal)," he said. "If it happens it won't be soon. I just want a break."

In the hour-long lecture, Arar told the story of his detainment to a Syrian prison in 2002, where he was tortured and forced to live in a tiny, dark cell. The Canadian government eventually intervened and he was released 10 months later.

Arar credited Canadian support and the media for getting a public inquiry into his ordeal.

However, he said some journalists reported false and misleading information through leaked sources, which didn't help his case.

"It's time for journalists in Canada to look at the protocol they use with confidential sources," he said.

Last month, Arar received a $10.5 million-dollar compensation package from the government along with an apology.

Michael Byers, a professor at UBC, organized the lecture. In his introduction, he said Arar would use some of the compensation towards human rights in Canada.

Arar did not confirm this during his talk.

Kendyl Salcito, a journalism student, said she attended because she's interested in the international aspect of it.

"Everyone's interviewed Arar already but he's still talking and I'd like to support that," she said.

Natalie Dick said hearing Arar speak, she couldn't help but think that he was in his position for a reason - to make a difference.

"He wouldn't be where he was now if that didn't happen," she said. "He wouldn't be talking to students, he wouldn't be so active. It's not a good thing but it almost is."

© The Canadian Press 2007