Obfuscated Thoughtlessness Inversed

Today's press release from the federal NDP reminded me just how shocking our treatment of refugees and new immigrants is in this country. No wonder we are one of the least densely populated countries on earth.

What happened to the open armed welcome into our communities, that we should be delivering to people who newly arrive here, as a nation of of mostly immigrants and their descendants. (It would of course be better to welcome people to land on which certainty over land claims existed-if only our governments would hurry up and settle)? And I'm not talking about the kind of welcome these people received or the kind of welcome this community is trying to give.

Anyone notice that skills shortage that is looming? Anyone notice the baby boom? Anyone notice the melting ice and the unpopulated plains? Actually, I guess the Canada West Foundation did...

But that won't get me off my rant. No way.. No single think tank from Calgary saying something somewhat sensible is going earn a moment's silence.

Instead, let's say it loud and proud, "welcome to Canada."

Now, I will quote others. Here's some select sections from press releases by the NDP on immigration issues from the last six months:

“We are breaking a promise to new Canadians when we cannot provide them with secure employment, steady income and a stable quality of life,” said Bill Siksay. “Immigrants are hardworking new Canadians who are trying to provide for their families. We must not turn our backs on them.” - NDP concerned over new Canadian's growing income gap

“The people who work directly with immigrants and their families have been telling us for years that this is the kind of legislation that we need,” said Peggy Nash. “The aim of this bill is to reunite families that in many cases have spent years apart. Let’s not miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to do the right thing.” - Peggy Nash introduces a “Once in a Lifetime” bill

“Many of these refugees have been living in limbo in the Philippines for over 17 years after fleeing the Vietnam War and its aftermath, said Siksay. “As stateless people they live an insecure existence. They can never fully be integrated into society and communities, they are unable to work legally, and they and their families are denied basic necessities like education, and health care.” - Siksay calls on Conservative government to settle last of Vietnamese boat people

"Mr. Speaker: This afternoon, refugees who are seeking shelter in Canada will be out in the cold on Parliament Hill. They are mostly women and children who are struggling to survive. They are vulnerable, they are hungry, most are very poor – and many of the women are trying to escape domestic violence or the sex trade. But the previous liberal government and now the conservative is exploiting and punishing them further by applying a modern day head tax – the refugee fee of $550 per refugee and $150 per child. I have tabled a motion in this House – to drop these fees - this head tax – this blood money on the heads of the most vulnerable…if this government does not act, then it is saying to the world and the ten thousand Canadians who signed a petition that children should be made to suffer and women should indeed be treated like dogs. Mr. Speaker, we must end this cruel practice now." - Chow and Siksay renew call for government to drop fees

"All immigrants face the risk of being made to feel like second class citizens. This summer, during the war in Lebanon, we saw the loyalty of many dual citizens questioned most inappropriately during a time of crisis when Canadians were actually dying. That is shameful,” said Olivia Chow. Chow also noted that at that time, two young girls from her riding were visiting relatives in Lebanon. "Fortunately, they were safely evacuated. Ensuring the safety of all Canadians should never have been an issue. There is only one class of Canadian citizen so citizens are citizens, no matter where they were born. And they should receive Canada's assistance during a crisis." - Dual citizenship a bonus for Canada, says NDP

"This is not just an isolated tale of abuse by a Liberal crony appointee, but a stain on our country for which the Government must hold itself responsible. It is a terrible indictment of our tattered and frayed immigration and refugee system. This sordid episode is a sign of a badly broken immigration system in Canada, which was neglected by four successive Liberal governments. Clearly, the neglect continues with the Harper Conservatives. Enough is enough!" - Refugee board sex scandal demonstrates need for independent appeal: NDP

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