Hon. Rempel’s statement on Syrian refugees

Canada should continue to take an active role in assisting with the humanitarian crisis in the region.

“Refugees arriving in Canada should be welcomed with open arms and the full confidence of all Canadians. Mr. Trudeau’s campaign promise to resettle 25,000 refugees by December 31 did not include a comprehensive plan for safety, security, housing, health and integration into the Canadian family.

“We are pleased that Mr. Trudeau has today listened to Canadians and abandoned a timeline that was not workable. Any resettlement plan must allow for the full integration of refugees as welcomed members of Canadian society.

“Last January our Conservative Government announced a commitment to resettle an additional 10,000 Syrian refugees. Pursuant to that commitment, approximately 10,000 refugees had either been processed or were in the final stages of processing. That work gives the current government a tremendous head start in aiding Syrian refugees.

“Today’s announcement by the Liberals still leaves Canadians with many unanswered questions about plans for caring for refugees upon arrival, and specifically, the real costs of the plan, impacts on provincial governments, and the involvement of our Canadian Armed Forces.

“We believe it is also imperative that Canada stand shoulder to shoulder with our allies in the mission to degrade ISIS. We continue to call on the Liberal government to reverse its position and ensure the Royal Canadian Air Force remains engaged in the fight against ISIS.”