Canadian Immigration Minister States that Canada’s Ability to Accept Asylum Seekers is Limited as US Halts Refugee Program
Canada’s Immigration Minister Marc Miller states that Canada’s ability to welcome more asylum seekers is limited as the United States suspends its refugee resettlement program.
Miller mentioned on Jan. 24 that Canada will remain “a humanitarian country,” but acknowledged constraints in accepting more immigrants.
He added, “But if there are opportunities, we’ll certainly look at them.”
Canada has decreased its immigration targets by 20 percent for 2025, which includes refugees.
The immigration minister noted that Canada is currently housing 50,000 Afghans, over 300,000 Ukrainians, and has welcomed tens of thousands of Syrian refugees.
Miller referred to the U.S. decision as “unfortunate” and stated it was that country’s prerogative.
“We’ll continue to do our job as a country that does have a heart and does care about resettlement of people that are fleeing war.”
The presidential order allows for case-by-case admission of refugees by the secretary of state and the secretary of homeland security.
Canada is preparing for a potential rise in refugees following the U.S. decision.
Authorities in Canada are considering opening an additional processing center for asylum seekers near the U.S. border in Quebec.
The government has issued a notice seeking a space within 15 kilometers of the border crossing at St-Bernard-de-Lacolle, Que., capable of accommodating reception and meal distribution, with a waiting area for up to 200 people.
US Deportations Begin
Another aspect of Trump’s immigration plan is the deportation of those who entered the country illegally.
According to the president’s press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, these deportations commenced on Friday.
Jack Phillips and The Canadian Press contributed to this report.