There is no reason whatsoever for why the Canadian government had such a slow response to atrocities against you. There's no amount of words of apology, or even compensation that can undo this crime. I just feel truly sorry that this even happened. I can't even imagine
what a nightmare it was. But I want to thank you for standing up for what is right, and even in your own suffering, you still fight to bring justice. (Anonymous)

RCMP Chief Zaccardelli is correct, the world was a different place on September 12. It wasn't, however, because terrorism changed it; we changed it. Maher, you are a victim of our fear. All of the apologies in the world cannot return what was taken from you. All of the apologies in
the world cannot remove the scars that should never have been. I would never ask you to endure that horror but I thank you for reminding us of that which we hold most dear, our freedom. May we never forget your sacrifice, your courage, and your inspiration and let justice be done. (Comments from Graydon Smith)

I didn't want to believe that our government was wrong about Mr. Arar, not out of malice towards him, but because if they were wrong, then they had been complicit in torture. I apologize for my naivete, I apologize for taking the side of a bureaucracy rather than the individual. Mr. Arar has comported himself with amazing dignity and grace while in the media spotlight. His comments about his ordeal - which includes the O'Connor hearings and media attention - have seemed to me thoughtful and informative, more the perspective of Justice O'Connor than a victim of torture and public humiliation. Sir, I salute you. If the opportunity arises, I will offer my apology in person. (Comments from Michael Ruxton)

I feel that you need to know that you have many supporters across this great country of ours. I am outraged at the atrocities that you lived through and the unbelievable reports from the government (on both sides of the border) and most recently the RCMP. It is just plain wrong what you and your family have lived through. I hope you gain strength from my support and belief in your cause. Never, ever, give up! (Comments from Debra Currie, Halifax, Nova Scotia)

Merci M.Arrar d'avoir eu le courage de forcer le gouvernement et les services de renseignement de rendre publique leurs pratiques honteuses et inhumaines. Je suis heureux que vous et votre famille pourrez enfin retrouver une vie normale et correcte. Espérons que les autres qui ont subi un sort similaire seront égalementlibérés. (Par Normand Demers)

I think every Canadian should thank you and your wife. Your patriotism and faith in the Canadian system not only improves the fortunes of every Canadian, but shows us that everyone can get a measure of justice, if they persevere. You and your wife are a credit to Canada. (Comments from Matt Rose)

I have been following your story for a couple of years now, and I wanted to say how glad I am that some semblance of justice has been done. Canada and the U.S. owe you much more than this complete vindication and I hope you get the full justice you seek. Stories like yours should be shouted from the rooftops, so people can become aware of the inhumanity that fear and ignorance breeds. (Comments from Gerry Patterson)

I am happy to see that the inquiry has totally vindicated you. Canada is a better country today because of your fight. Thank you. (Comments from Geoffrey Forbes MD)

I want to thank you, Maher Arar, your family, and your legal team for seeing this challenge through. Others in your position might have felt it too painful and difficult. You had the courage and the conviction to challenge the Canadian government. Your perseverance, and the happy conclusion of your efforts, will hopefully lead to a broader examination of the policies and practices of the RCMP and the Canadian government, in regards to those under suspicion of terrorist activity. I am also hopeful that change in these policies and practices will result. I want to recognize your contribution and your personal sacrifice. I trust that we will have a more equitable Canada for all Canadians as a result. Thank you. May you live in peace. (Comments from Stephanie Gilman)

I was privileged to interview you after your Nelson appearance, Mr. Arar, and was deeply impressed by your dignity and composure in speaking to a roomful of strangers about such a terrifying ordeal. This is courage of a unique type. You are lighting a torch in the dark for many more, sadly, like you who have been so abused. Wishing you all the best in your new life in BC. (Comments by Art Joyce)