By John Q. Hosedrinker 
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After ICE raids, Canada sees a surge in migrants crossing the border from the U.S. to Quebec, and it’s become a pretty significant issue. The Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle crossing, just north of New York City, has essentially become a major entry point. It used to be that migrants would quietly slip across a wooded trail there, thanks to a long-standing agreement loophole between the U.S. and Canada. However, that all changed when some rule adjustments came into play in 2023, making it more difficult for people who entered Canada this way to stay.
The core of the issue is that many of these individuals are likely to be turned away unless they can demonstrate close family ties in Canada. Data from the Canadian border agency shows that by mid-September, there were over two thousand cases this year where people claiming refugee status were deemed ineligible and subsequently removed back to the U.S. In an effort to deter this, Canada has been sending people back across the border.
Now, one thing to note is the wide variety of perspectives on this, ranging from very welcoming to quite cautious. Some express worries about Canada’s capacity to handle an increased influx, given existing pressures on resources, and the cost of living. There are concerns about the current unemployment situation as well, which is a valid point. Others, on the other hand, emphasize empathy and understanding for those fleeing difficult circumstances.
The conversations around this are complex. Some people highlight Canada’s immigration policies, especially over the last couple of years. The sentiment is that the system might be overwhelmed, and that Canada’s current situation might not be the best for newcomers. There’s also a reminder that just because someone is crossing the border does not automatically guarantee permanent residency or sanctuary. Most are ultimately sent back to the U.S.
Others discuss the harsh realities migrants face, like overcrowded detention centers and the potential for being sent back to dangerous countries. Contrast that with the need for skilled labor and housing construction in Canada, and you get a clear picture of the challenges involved. One factor to note is the origin of the migrants, many coming from places like Haiti, where French is spoken.
Then there is the Safe Third Country Agreement, which factors heavily into the decision-making. Under this agreement, if an individual is seeking asylum and enters Canada from the U.S., they are often turned away, as both countries are considered safe. Exceptions apply if they have family in Canada.
The processing times are also causing problems. While people await decisions, they might receive shelter, money, and healthcare from the government. This is where the system is backlogged, and the process is often frustrating.
Ultimately, the debate touches on a lot of important points, including the need for empathy, the fairness of immigration policies, and the capacity of the country to provide support. It’s definitely a situation that warrants a lot of careful consideration.