Canada’s New Government is Getting Things Done to Tackle Human Trafficking

July 26, 2007

I believe many Canadians would be surprised to know that human trafficking is a tragic reality affecting over two million women and children worldwide. This includes Canadians – those who have come from foreign countries as well as those who are travelling abroad – all are vulnerable to the risk posed by skilled, dangerous predators.

That’s why Canada’s New Government has taken action on this very important issue. This government understands the perils and consequences faced by women and children each year, many forced into the sex trade. The time has come to tackle this problem once and for all.

Sadly, the crime of human trafficking is an aspect of our society that goes unnoticed by the majority of Canadians. While many of us are immersed in the busyness of our day-to-day lives, criminals have continually exploited some of our very own citizens.

It is not as difficult as one might think for women and children to find themselves trapped in this world of exploitation. 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 them upon arrival.

On June 19, 2007, Citizenship and Immigration Minister Diane Finley announced new measures to strengthen protection for victims of human trafficking.

The new measures reflect the ongoing commitment of Canada’s New Government to combat human trafficking through prevention, prosecution and protection while, at the same time, ensuring the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.

To assist victims in their recovery process, the Temporary Resident Permit for victims of human trafficking will be extended from 120 to 180 days. This allows victims to apply for a work permit – an option not previously available. Additionally, the fees for these initial resident and work permits will be waived for victims of human trafficking.

Victims of human trafficking will also continue to receive health-care benefits, including medical treatment and counselling services, under the Interim Federal Health Program.

These new measures will help victims by giving them what they need – more time. In particular, providing work permits will protect trafficked persons from ever being victimized again.

I realize I’ve used the word “victim” quite often when referring to those affected by this horrible crime. No woman or young child should have to suffer at the hands of predators. Fortunately, the changes being made in the battle against human trafficking will substantially lower the risk. Soon women and children everywhere, especially here in Canada, will enjoy increased safety and protection.

As your Member of Parliament for Stormont, Dundas and South Glengarry, I am proud that Canada’s New Government continues to take an important leadership role in combating human trafficking internationally. By doing so, Canada’s New Government is acting to create a safer Canada that fights modern-day slavery here and abroad.