I would just point out that the problems arising in Canada because of the lack of an appeal mechanism also exist abroad. Many applications sponsored by the private sector are denied, and in some cases, we find that negative decisions are not well founded.
Errors can occur when a person appears before the IRB in Canada for a hearing. Mistakes can happen and that's why we are lobbying for an appeal mechanism. A hearing in Canada lasts a minimum of two hours and the applicant is assisted by counsel or a lawyer. Some board members are highly trained and have access to a database and to documentation.
Abroad, however, visa officers do not have access to this documentation and do not have the same level of training. As a rule, refugees are not represented by counsel. More than likely they do not understanding the definition of refugee and often, interviews last a mere 30 minutes. Obviously, it's impossible to claim to have made a sound decision after a half-hour interview, especially when interpretation services are required.
Owing to the lack of an appeal mechanism and to the relative laxness of the rulings, there is cause to be greatly concerned about the decision-making process abroad. During our meeting, we discussed the decisions made in Damas, particularly those involving Iraqi applicants. We're all aware of the situation in Iraq. We also know that the approval rate in this case if very low. Our visa officers reject the applications of persons who seem to have very good reasons for fleeing Iraq. This situation is very worrisome.