As was noted, I nodded in agreement with some of the statements of Ezat earlier, because I strongly believe, and the Canadian Taxpayers Federation strongly believes, that Canada's refugee system needs to be open, compassionate and welcoming to those who face persecution. But I don't believe this bill makes the system less compassionate. In fact, I believe it makes it more compassionate, because it means that it cannot be abused by those who are not legitimate refugees, or at least that it will be less likely to be abused, and it expedites the process for legitimate refugees. I believe it makes our system more compassionate.
My grandparents fled communist East Germany as refugees into the west, and eventually were welcomed as immigrants into Canada. My family has direct experience with fleeing from tyranny, fleeing from oppression, and of experiencing the generosity of Canada opening its borders to people who want to become Canadians and contribute to society. I believe passionately that we need to welcome legitimate refugees with open arms. I believe this bill actually strengthens that compassion. I don't believe it diminishes it at all.