Last night the Immigration committee agreed to important amendments to Bill C-11 which provide more protection for refugees.
While the Safe Country of Origin concept remains, all refugees, including those from so called 'safe' countries will be allowed access to the Refugee Appeal Division. Refugees from 'safe' countries will have their claims expedited, but the provisions agreed to appear to conform to the guidelines of the UNHCR.
There will be more time at the front end of the refugee process to make a claim, and the right to a lawyer will be protected. Failed refugees will be allowed to make a Humanitarian and Compassionate application within one year, and they will be allowed to raise factors related to hardship should they be removed from Canada.
Failed claimants will not be able to make a Pre Removal Risk Assessment application in the year following a failed refugee claim, but may do so should they remain in Canada one year after they recieve their final decision from the Refugee Appeal Division.
