IN TOUCH WITH MP EARL DREESHEN

ILLEGAL BORDER CROSSINGS

August 17, 2017

It was recently reported that 3,800 illegal border crossers have entered Canada since August 1. This is in addition to the 3,000 in July after Justin Trudeau misled the world by implying our borders were open to anyone, a statement he has yet to publicly correct.

The increasing number of illegal border crossings in Canada has resulted in misinformation amongst the general public. It is important for Conservatives to continue to remind Canadians and members of the media what the facts are.

One of the important things to remember is that it is illegal to enter Canada between official points of entry.

People who are intercepted by the RCMP or local law enforcement after crossing the border illegally are brought to the nearest CBSA port of entry or inland CBSA or IRCC office (whichever is closest), where an immigration officer will conduct an immigration examination, including considering whether detention is warranted. At this point, individuals undergo health and security screenings. These screenings include biographic and biometric checks (for example, fingerprinting).

Individuals whose claim is found not to be eligible will be issued a removal order and released on conditions to report for a future removal proceeding.

The fact of the matter is, despite Trudeau’s proclamation – Canada still has a process to follow and the integrity of our immigration system to be aware of. After having their expectations increased, the vast majority of these illegal border crossers will be deported, but only after draining resources intended for legitimate refugees and asylum seekers.

Under the Safe Third Country Agreement, signed between Canada and the United States (U.S.) in 2004, refugee claimants are required to seek protection in the first safe country in which they arrive, which includes the United States. No one is fleeing persecution in the United States.

Conservatives would have never made such an irresponsible proclamation, nor given these people false hope. Justin Trudeau has broken the system and it’s up to him to fix it.

Sincerely your Member of Parliament,

Earl Dreeshen

Twitter: @earl_dreeshen
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