Minister Urges BC to Increase Support for Asylum Claims Amid Request for Additional Funding

British Columbia must increase efforts to support more asylum seekers arriving in Canada, stated the federal immigration minister on June 11 in response to criticisms from the B.C. premier regarding funding for immigration settlement.

David Eby emphasized on June 10 that B.C. and other Western provinces should receive a portion of the $750 million deal recently made with Quebec by Ottawa to assist with settlement services.

He expressed frustration at Quebec and Ontario receiving significant federal funding to manage the influx of asylum seekers and temporary residents, while B.C. was overlooked.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller clarified on June 11 that the deal with Quebec aimed to compensate the province for high costs associated with a large number of asylum claimants for two years. Initially, Quebec had requested $1 billion from Ottawa to cover these expenses.

Government data shows that in the previous year, 65% of asylum claimants arrived in Quebec compared to less than 2% in B.C.

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“Provinces like British Columbia need to step up in the allocation of resources towards asylum seekers,” stated Mr. Miller. “Federal support is essential in this regard.”

Mr. Miller mentioned that B.C. has not applied for funds under a program for asylum seekers to access temporary housing since 2019 due to shifting migration flows.

Mr. Eby highlighted that 10,000 individuals arrive in British Columbia every 37 days, leading to refugees being housed in homeless shelters and international students lacking support.

Expressing concern, Mr. Eby noted the resources being directed to Ontario and Quebec at the expense of Western provinces like B.C.

These remarks came after a meeting with other Western premiers on June 10, where Mr. Eby advocated for fair distribution of funds based on per capita figures.

Regarding the funding agreement with Quebec, Mr. Eby expressed his dismay, stating it was the final straw for him.

While Mr. Miller acknowledged the need to address the challenges of immigration growth in B.C., he clarified that these costs should not be confused with the expenses related to asylum services for those without means.

He highlighted that most arrivals in B.C. come through economic programs and contribute to the province’s economy through tax payments.

Several cabinet ministers representing Quebec constituencies agreed on June 11 to discuss any challenges B.C. faces due to immigration growth, while emphasizing Quebec’s role in accommodating a significant number of asylum seekers.

Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault praised Mr. Eby and expressed willingness to engage with the B.C. government on these matters promptly.