Canada to offer haven to stranded US travellers

Canada will offer temporary residency to any travellers affected by the hugely controversial new immigration rules announced by American President Donald Trump last week.

Last week, President Trump announced new orders temporarily barring people from seven Muslim-majority countries. He also slashed the country’s annual immigration intake from 110,000 people to 50,000.

The executive orders ban people from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen from travelling to the US.

However, Canada’s new Immigration Minister, Ahmed Hussen, yesterday revealed that Canada will ensure that those who are left stranded by the announcement will have a place to stay.

“Let me assure those who may be stranded in Canada that I will use my authority as minister to provide them with temporary residency if they need it, as we have done so in the past,” Mr Hussen said.

The Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, echoed his Minister’s comments on Twitter. “To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada” he tweeted.

The Canadian government’s decision came after more than 200 Canadian technology company founders, executives and investors called on Ottawa to give temporary residency to those displaced by Mr Trump’s order.

“Canadian tech companies understand the power of inclusion and diversity of thought, and that talent and skill know no borders,” the letter said.

While Canada’s government itself has so far stopped short at directly criticising the stance adopted by its southern neighbour, local and national politicians in Canada have widely condemned President Trump’s ban.

Article published 30th January 2017