Government Initiates Review of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Overview of the Announcement
Canada upholds a proud humanitarian tradition of offering refuge to those escaping persecution while safeguarding against system misuse. The government remains dedicated to this mission.
On June 9, 2017, in Ottawa, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, revealed the start of a review focusing on asylum processing methods at the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB). This review aims to enhance productivity in processing asylum claims more efficiently.
Enhanced productivity ensures swift decision-making for those seeking protection, reinforcing Canada’s commitment to orderly migration and the safety of its citizens. Neil Yeates, a retired senior public servant, will lead the review as an independent expert, supported by a secretariat and overseen by a steering committee.
Statements from Officials
“Canada’s asylum system must strike a balance between providing protection to those fleeing persecution and ensuring that the system is not misused by those who do not need Canada’s protection. This independent review will identify options and recommended approaches to further increase productivity with respect to the processing of asylum claims.”
– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Key Information
Canada’s asylum claims adhere to international treaties, binding the government to assess these claims legally.
The review’s final report, featuring findings and actionable recommendations, is expected by summer 2018, with an interim report due by mid-December 2017.
The review will also evaluate the IRB’s governance, structure, and accountability mechanisms, ensuring a thorough assessment.
In response to rising asylum claims, the IRB has already implemented expedited processing measures without compromising security checks. Learn more.
Additional Resources
- Backgrounder – Biography – Neil Yeates
- Backgrounder – Immigration and Refugee Board Review – Terms of Reference
- Backgrounder – Immigration and Refugee Board Review Steering Committee Terms of Reference
Related Links
Contact Information
For Media Inquiries
Bernie Derible
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
FAQs
What is the purpose of the IRB review?
The review aims to enhance productivity in asylum claim processing while ensuring system integrity.
Who is leading the review?
Neil Yeates, a retired senior public servant, is overseeing the review with support from an independent secretariat.
When are the review reports expected?
An interim report is due by mid-December 2017, with the final report anticipated by summer 2018.
How does the review affect current asylum claims?
Some claims are being processed faster due to new measures, maintaining security standards.
Where can I find more information?
Further details can be found in the Backgrounder.
Read our immigration guide for additional insights.
