There is a very broad consensus that the waiting times are much too long and that the way this government and previous governments have managed the refugees issue has been pathetic. These long waiting times did not appear suddenly over the past two years.
I am playing devil's advocate here because I know very well that the situation in Iraq is extremely difficult. However, you must be aware that all over Canada there are many refugees who all think that their situation is a matter of life and death and is extremely difficult. I want you to know that we all agree that those cases should be dealt with in a much more expeditious manner.
I have another concern. You have referred to many displaced persons in Iraq, and their number is much higher than what Canada could ever accept as refugees. Those people cannot and do not all want to come to Canada.
Does Canada have a role to play in helping displaced people within a country or in neighboring countries? The cost might be the same and it might be much more effective to help the Iraqi people.