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The need for funding for organization in Manitoba involved with the settlement of refugees

 On Tuesday March 15, I called, in Question Period, on the government to help fund refugee settlement services, a critical need at a time when we have many refugees coming to Manitoba.

Refugee Settlement Funding for Services

Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Madam Speaker, crises in Afghanistan and in Ukraine have created a need for a major expansion in the ability of Manitoba to help refugees fleeing from unsafe con­di­tions.

      I'm sure the minister respon­si­ble for immigration is concerned about fair treatment of refugees. We all agree that Manitoba should be going full steam ahead in accepting and supporting refugees from Ukraine. I hope the minister's also on board with a sig­ni­fi­cant program to help settle refugees from Afghanistan.

      Will the gov­ern­ment announce their plan for funding the major effort needed, and will it in­clude prov­incial support for sponsorship agree­ment holders, like Hospitality House, Accueil francophone, Welcome Place and IRCOM?

Hon. Jon Reyes (Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration): You know, we live in a wonderful country. Very proud today to have met the crew of the HMCS Winnipeg, who defend the demo­cracy and freedom of our country.

      May I remind him that there are many immi­gration streams, federally and prov­incially, and may I remind him the refugee stream works with the federal gov­ern­ment, but we will continue to work–the federal gov­ern­ment to ensure we expedite those who need a safe haven here in our province.

      Thank you, Madam Speaker.

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