Today, Minister Gary Goodyear, Member of Parliament for Cambridge-North Dumfries, announced his support for Bill C-4, Preventing Human Smugglers from Abusing Canada’s Immigration System Act.

“My office continuously hears from residents that want an end to human smuggling.  Our government has taken action.  We have made combating this terrible crime a national priority.  This bill helps us achieve just that”, said Minister Goodyear.     

Human smuggling is a dangerous form of exploitation that puts at risk human lives and compromises the integrity of our immigration and refugee systems.  The legislation, introduced by Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister, Jason Kenney, and Public Safety Minister, Vic Toews, aims to crack down on criminals and prevent human smugglers from abusing Canada’s immigration system.

“Canadians gave us a strong mandate to prevent the abuse of our generous immigration system,” said Minister Kenney. “Canadians have told us this abuse of our generosity is a real problem that must be stopped. Canada is a compassionate nation of immigrants with a proud history and tradition of welcoming refugees. At the same time, every sovereign country has a responsibility to protect its borders, and no Canadian thinks it’s acceptable for criminals to abuse Canada’s immigration system for financial gain.”

"This government continues to be absolutely clear. Human smuggling is a despicable crime and any attempts to abuse Canada's generosity for financial gain will not be tolerated," said Minister Toews. "By re-introducing this legislation we are sending a clear message that our doors are open to those who play by the rules - including all legitimate refugees. However, we will crack down on those who endanger human lives and threaten the integrity of our borders."