QUESTION PERIOD — Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Processing of Work Permit
October 5, 2023
My question is for the Government Representative, Senator Gold.
For months, eastern Quebec has been rallying around Simon Croz, a Frenchman who has lived in Quebec since 2016 and runs the Paralœil production company and movie theatre. I can testify to Mr. Croz’s exceptional work at this place, which is the backbone of Rimouski’s cultural universe.
He has been subject to a removal order since May 4 because Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has not renewed his work permit. Allegedly, some minor errors were made. Since then, Mr. Croz has had difficulty meeting with an immigration officer in person and reaching anyone at the call centres, which are completely clogged.
The department is so bogged down that a border services officer apparently suggested he file a pre-removal risk assessment to help save time. It is totally ridiculous, since the risk of torture is non-existent in France. Can the government find a way to help Mr. Croz clear up his situation?
Thank you for the question.
The government is well aware that the decisions made in immigration cases like the one you raised have a major impact on the lives of those involved. I believe that Mr. Croz’s case has been made public and that people are calling for Minister Miller to intervene. I’ll be happy to follow up with the minister on this.
Indeed, the immigration process is difficult for the individuals involved, and it is especially difficult emotionally. It seems cruel to make things even harder by increasing the amount of red tape and reducing the support services offered to applicants.
Will the government recognize that immigrants aren’t being offered adequate support and welcome services and that a drastic overhaul is needed? After all, we’re talking about human beings here, not objects. What happened to our Canadian values of solidarity and respect?
The government is well aware of the challenges facing applicants in the immigration process. Minister Miller is known for his frankness and for not mincing his words, if I can put it that way. I will speak with him about Mr. Croz’s case.
