Resolution number
30
Whereas
- The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child has noted with concern in its recent report on Canada that children are being excluded from schools in Canada because of their lack of immigration status;
- It is the policy of the CCR that all minor children residing in Canada have the right to attend school regardless of their immigration status;
- Education of children is a matter of the exclusive jurisdiction of the provincial governments under the Canadian constitution;
- The exception set out in section 30(2) of IRPA has the effect, due to its ambiguity, of excluding from school many children who are not visitors;
Therefore be it resolved
That the CCR:
- Urge the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration to amend section 30(2) omitting the exception.
- Contact all the provincial Ministers of Education and urge them to ensure that all minor children are admitted to schools in Canada free of charge without regard to their immigration status.
- Work with local groups such as the Education Rights Task Force in Ontario to develop strategies to ensure that all minor children have free access to education everywhere in Canada regardless of their immigration status.
Working Group
Inland Protection