Justin Trudeau defends his government’s handling of asylum seekers

A day after Premier Doug Ford told the Prime Minister he had put a strain on local and provincial services with his welcome approach to asylum seekers, Justin Trudeau promises help is still on the way for Toronto. Friday he met with Toronto Mayor John Tory.

“I know this has been a challenge and you have stepped up and the Federal government will continue to be a good and strong and present partner.”

In Hamilton the emergency shelter system is also at capacity with up to 50% made up of newcomer families.

“The need is big, maybe bigger than it has been in quite a long time.” Scott Jones, Micah House executive director.

At Micah House they are operating over capacity and can’t meet the need. Last year they had to turn away 500 requests for help.

The short term shelter houses people for up to 2 months and has room for about 80 people a year.

Mayor Fred Eisenberger says the city is proud of the role its played and will continue to play in helping asylum seekers.

“Given we are operating at capacity, we have a limited ability to take in additional asylum seekers without triggering an emergency response”

Jones suggests that it is already an emergency.

The province’s minister in charge for immigration today urged Trudeau to commit federal resources to relieve overcrowding in Toronto’s shelter system.

“We have a looming crisis so what I am simply saying is that the federal government has there obligations in Canadian law and they must pay for those obligations.” Lisa Macleod, Ministry of Immigration.

Referring to the 800 refugee claimants and asylum seekers that are staying in Toronto college residences that must be vacated in a month before students return to campus.