The South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) has spoken out against the granting of refugee status to a white South African by Canada's immigration and refugee board on the grounds that he was allegedly persecuted for being white.

Mr Zev Krengel, Chairman of the SAJBD, strongly rejected allegations that whites were specifically targeted by criminals: "While it is true that South Africa  has an unacceptable high crime, it is a problem that impacts on South Africans across the board.  If anything black South Africans are more vulnerable to crime due to the sad historical reality of higher poverty levels in their communities."

The SAJBD believes that South Africa is a country that goes to extraordinary lengths to ensure justice and equality for every sector of its diverse population.

For further comment, contact Zev Krengel (082 557 9681) or Wendy Kahn (083 444 3625)