Canadian Government Allocates $250 Million to Quebec for Irregular Migration Costs
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Official Announcement
The Canadian government has committed $250 million to Quebec. This financial support is part of a cost-sharing initiative to assist with the expenses incurred from providing aid to asylum seekers pursuing protection in Canada.
August 29, 2019 – Ottawa – The federal government acknowledges Quebec’s significant efforts in offering temporary shelter and essential services to vulnerable groups. These individuals are accommodated after comprehensive screening at the border.
Despite a yearly decline in border crossings into Quebec, the province managed over 90% of entries outside official checkpoints in 2017 and 2018. Together, the governments have collaborated to oversee border operations and establish essential infrastructure for secure claim processing.
This funding is intended to cover the extraordinary expenses Quebec faced due to the asylum-seeker influx during 2017 and 2018.
Canada remains committed to upholding border integrity while fulfilling international obligations, ensuring a fair and compassionate refugee protection system.
Statements
“The increased number of irregular migrants entering Canada through Quebec in the past two years has created unique challenges for the Quebec government. We appreciate their collaboration in handling this situation.”
– The Honourable Bill Morneau, Finance Minister and Interim Minister for Intergovernmental Affairs and Internal Trade
“Our priority is a well-managed immigration and asylum system with safe and orderly migration flows. Quebec has been an exceptional partner, and we look forward to continued collaboration.”
– The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of Border Security and Organized Crime Reduction
Further Information
Media Contacts
For media inquiries only
Vincent Hughes
Senior Communications Advisor
Office of the Minister of Intergovernmental and Northern Affairs and Internal Trade
vincent.hughes@iga-aig.gc.ca
Marie-Emmanuelle Cadieux
Senior Communications Advisor
Office of the Minister of Border Security and Organized Crime Reduction
marie-emmanuelle.cadieux@canada.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613‑952‑1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQ
Why is the Canadian government providing funds to Quebec?
The funds are intended to help Quebec manage costs associated with the influx of asylum seekers crossing the border irregularly in 2017 and 2018.
How will the funds be used?
The funds will address the extraordinary expenses Quebec incurred for providing temporary housing and essential services to asylum seekers.
What measures are in place to manage asylum flows?
Canada and Quebec have coordinated efforts to establish infrastructure for safe claim processing and maintain border integrity.
Who handled the majority of irregular border crossings?
Quebec managed over 90% of such crossings between 2017 and 2018.
How does Canada ensure fairness in its refugee protection system?
Canada is committed to maintaining a fair and compassionate system while upholding international obligations.
For more information, Read our immigration guide.
For related topics, explore: Immigration policy, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Canada, Immigration and citizenship, general public, news releases.
