Ad Hoc Task Force on Irregular Migration Convenes in Montréal
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Official Announcement
Montréal, Québec
August 24, 2017
Government of Canada
The Ad Hoc Intergovernmental Task Force on Irregular Migration, led by Federal Minister Marc Garneau, convened for the second time to address the rise in asylum seekers at the Canada-US border. This collaborative task force includes federal ministers, Member of Parliament Emmanuel Dubourg, and provincial ministers from Quebec and Ontario working in unison to manage the situation.
Key Discussions and Outcomes
Prime Minister Trudeau participated in the meeting, where they evaluated the in-Canada asylum system and assessed the situation from an operational standpoint. Ministers Hussen and Goodale provided updates, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between federal and provincial authorities and community partners.
Strategic Measures
Task Force members analyzed current challenges and explored strategies being implemented by federal, provincial, and local governments. They focused on enhancing data collection and sharing, providing temporary accommodations for asylum seekers, and ensuring support for staff maintaining Canada’s security.
The ministers praised the effective cooperation between federal and provincial governments in handling the surge of arrivals. They committed to continuing efforts to improve data sharing and coordinate resources to meet the basic needs of asylum claimants while upholding Canadian immigration laws and procedures. The Task Force plans to meet again next week.
Statements from Officials
“Our meeting was very constructive. The Government of Canada, along with Quebec, Ontario, and our partners, are committed to working together to address both the immediate and long-term needs of those affected by this situation. Our priorities remain the security of Canadians, while providing assistance to those in need.”
– The Honorable Marc Garneau, Minister and Chair of the Ad Hoc Intergovernmental Task Force on Irregular Migration
“I am very pleased with this second meeting of the Task Force. We were able to exchange information and come out with a common appreciation regarding the influx of asylum seekers in Canada. I would like to reiterate the importance of this committee. It allows us to ensure effective action on the ground and to adjust our strategies and actions as the situation evolves.”
– The Honourable Kathleen Weil, Quebec Minister of Immigration, Diversity and Inclusiveness
“Ontario is committed to working with all levels of government and with community partners to respond to the situation as it evolves. With our partners, we will continue to closely monitor the needs of asylum seekers and local communities to coordinate efforts.”
– The Honourable Laura Albanese, Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Immigration
Important Facts
- The Task Force was announced on August 17, 2017, by Minister Marc Garneau and Quebec Minister Kathleen Weil.
- It addresses the increased flow of asylum seekers entering Canada from the US.
- The Task Force includes key federal ministers such as Minister Garneau, Minister Goodale, Minister Hussen, and Minister Sajjan, along with provincial representatives like MP Emmanuel Dubourg.
Related Links
Contact Information
For inquiries related to irregular migration:
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
For inquiries related to the Task Force:
Delphine Denis
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Marc Garneau
Minister of Transport, Ottawa
613-991-0700
delphine.denis@tc.gc.ca
