Refugee groups denounce Roxham Road closure
Posted April 4, 2023 5:52 pm.
Last Updated April 4, 2023 6:01 pm.
A coalition of community groups assisting refugees is criticizing the decision by Canada and the United States to revise the Safe Third Country Agreement and close Roxham Road.
The group says the move violates the basic human rights of the most vulnerable people who are knocking on the country’s door to seek help.
Le Choix, held a press conference Tuesday, to condemn the decision, as the date marks Refugee Rights Day.
The group says despite the “official” closure of Roxham Road, asylum seekers will still attempt to cross the border, albeit in a more perilous manner.
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Refugees and their supporters call for open borders as they take part in a protest in front of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s riding office, in Montreal, Tuesday, April 4, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz
The group of organizations had already sounded the alarm last January. Its members pointed out the lack of human and financial resources to properly accompany asylum seekers, who face a long waiting period to obtain services.
The group argues this delays their integration into society and costs the community more money.
The minister of immigration, francisation and integration, Christine Fréchette, and the minister responsible for social solidarity and community action, Chantal Rouleau, announced approximately two weeks later an emergency aid of $3.5 million to support the organizations.
—This Canadian Press article was translated from French by CityNews
