With the information suplied (not saying that there's not more to the story that would justify Canada's "soft" approach), I think there could have been a lot more done. If it had been an American, you can bet the Saudi's would have either killed him right away, made sure that he had some type of proper representation (and was treated properly), or have turned him over VERY quickly after the arrest. The American government, generally, isn't very tolerant of American's being severly punished (not to mention tortured) by other countries. Remember that kid that got busted (seems like it was somewhere in Asia) for vandalism and they wanted to "whip" him? That caused quite a stir and it was just to whip his ass, and he deserved it! Canada stays pretty neutral during most conflicts....admit it. With that type of attitude it's hard to stand up to another country (especially one like Saudi Arabia......the Canadians KNOW there are terrorist cells all over their own country) and refuse to be pushed around or have their citizens mistreated.
I can appreciate your sense of Nationalism and I'm fighting a losing battle trying to argue this case, for that I'm sorry! But, they don't call ya'll FRENCH-Canadians for nothing! :confused: Just playing! :laugh: