MP Salma Zahid's Letter to Immigration Minister Miller About Community Concerns about Limitations on Gaza Family Reunification

Hon. Marc Miller
Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

Minister,

I would like to thank you and your team for your announcement of Dec. 21, 2023 regarding Immigration measures to help people affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict. I know your team has been working very hard on this program through the holidays, and it has given hope to many who have extended family members trapped by the conflict.

In my consultations with community members, I have received important constructive feedback that I want to share with you so this program can be the success we all hope for.

First, there is worry that program levels will be insufficient compared to the number of people with strong ties to Canada that may wish to seek temporary refuge here.

Second, given that both the people of Palestine and the people of Ukraine have been displaced by ongoing conflict, it is strongly felt that the Immigration measures and support for Ukrainians and their families should be used as a model here. Specifically, relating to measures around application fees, support on arrival and dedicated program assistance.

Third, there is concern that the program currently covers those in Gaza and Israel but excludes the West Bank. Especially given rising levels of violence in this region, it should be included in this program as well.

Finally, while this is more under the purview of your colleague the Minister for Global Affairs, it is strongly felt that Canada must do all it can to ensure that all those who wish to will be allowed to return to Gaza once the conflict has passed.

Given the imminent launch of this program | trust you will give these concerns due attention, and | thank you and your team once more for your humanitarian efforts on this important issue.

Yours truly, 

Salma Zahid, Member of Parliament for Scarborough Centre

Source