Resolution number
5
Whereas
- The CCR adopted Resolution 3 in November 1997 concerning changes from AAP to RAP and has not received a satisfactory response;
- There has been no consultation about the changes to services with the organizations that deliver the services, let alone with the refugees receiving the services;
- CIC is committed to promoting through its services greater independence in government-assisted refugees;
- CIC is continuing to impose a quantitative approach (defining the numbers of hours of service to be delivered, and the period within which they are to be delivered);
- The changes appear to mean, at least in some regions, significant cutbacks in services for government-assisted refugees;
- In some areas the role of reception centres is being called into question, but without open discussion and consultation;
- Citizenship and Immigration Canada is developing national standards for services to arriving refugees, again without consultations;
Therefore be it resolved
That the CCR:
- Reaffirm its call for RAP services to be contracted on a "global" basis - both temporary accommodation and services - while maintaining the financial contribution to existing reception centres at the 1997-98 level;
- Note that "independence" for resettled refugees is best achieved through timely, holistic, effective and appropriate services;
- Call on Citizenship and Immigration Canada i) to review the proposed RAP implementation and develop national standards, in consultation with NGOs delivering the services and with resettled refugees, and ii) to hold a national meeting for this consultation.
Working Group
Immigration and Settlement