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News Release
Canada’s new government strengthens protection for victims of human trafficking
Ottawa, June 19, 2007 — The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, today introduced new measures to help assist victims of human trafficking brought into Canada from abroad.
The new measures extend the length of the temporary resident permit (TRP) for victims of human trafficking to 180 days, up from 120. This extension also allows victims to apply for a work permit — an option not previously available.
The new measures will also continue to allow victims of human trafficking to receive health-care benefits, including medical treatment and counselling services, under the Interim Federal Health Program.
“Human traffickers often use the promise of a well-paid job abroad to lure innocent victims away from their families and communities, only to exploit their labour upon arrival,” said Minister Finley. “These new measures will help victims by giving them more time and, in particular, providing a work permit will protect trafficked persons from being victimized again.”
The fees for these initial resident and work permits, which normally cost $200 and $150 each, will be waived.
In addition to these measures, and depending on their particular circumstances, a number of other avenues may also be pursued by possible victims of trafficking. For example, they may apply for permanent residence from within Canada through the refugee determination process, on humanitarian and compassionate grounds or, over time, as members of the permit holder class.
Depending on the circumstances of individual cases, TRPs can be renewed at the end of the 180-day period.
The new policy changes respond to concerns raised by non-governmental organizations that provide assistance to victims of human trafficking, and the parliamentary Standing Committee on the Status of Women earlier this year.
Today’s announcement is another reflection of the Government of Canada’s continuing commitment to strengthen overall efforts to combat human trafficking through prevention, prosecution and protection.
As party to the United Nations Protocol to Prevent, Punish and Suppress Trafficking in Persons, Canada’s anti-trafficking efforts are guided by international standards. This new measure strengthens Canada’s implementation of the UN Trafficking protocol, in particular our responsibility to protect victims.
For further information (media only), please contact:
Mike Fraser
Director of Communications
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064
Marina Wilson
Spokesperson, Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
