I would say that, for the vast majority of refugee claimants, Bill C-31 will lead to further verifications of their case, since we are suggesting that a refugee appeal section be created for claimants whose application is denied by the Refugee Protection Division. That way, the vast majority of women who are denied by the IRB at the first hearing will have access to a thorough appeal process.
I think that’s a positive change for female refugee claimants, especially the ones who come from countries that are well known for the persecution of and violence against women.