Former United Nations Ambassador Stephen Lewis was in Prince Edward Island Saturday to support the NDP candidate in the riding of Egmont, but he also took a few moment to criticize the federal government's position on the Syrian refugee crisis.

Lewis, who is also the former leader of the Ontario New Democratic Party, was in Summerside to endorse Dr. Herb Dickieson as the NDP candidate. His family has a cottage on the Island and they visit the province often.

He told the crowd at Credit Union Place that as a youngster he was "a classic left wing punk."

To the delight of this audience, Lewis is describing his time as an NDP scrutineer, when nearly every vote ... <a href="https://t.co/wsfqLG0cSW">https://t.co/wsfqLG0cSW</a> —@JDoriaBrownCBC

He also took the opportunity to speak about Canada's response to the Syrian humanitarian crisis, saying the Harper government has chosen war over refugees.

Lewis said Canada can once again be known for peacekeeping and humanitarian aid under a new government.

"If we work collectively, then he will make history," Lewis said of supporting Dickieson.