If you don't need one, I'll speak to the motion. I would gladly speak in support of the motion. I do think it's a relevant and important motion.
I was also interested in asking the minister a question about whether he or his government have reached a conclusion regarding the waiving of the transportation and medical costs for all refugees. The government made the decision for Syrian refugees who arrived before November 4, 2015, to have that cost waived, but any refugees from Syria arriving after November 4, 2015, would not have their costs waived. That has caused incredible hardships for some families.
I met with families who have come forward. They have been here for eight months. They're on income assistance at a rate of $1,400 a month, of which $950 goes to their rent and they have $450 left. They're getting a bill each month for over $600 for their transportation and medical costs. There is so much stress for the families. It's unbelievable.
We're creating a two-tier system. I would argue that it's not just for Syrian refugees, but for all refugees.
I hope the government moves on this. The minister said on November 19, 2015, that the government was considering it. Perhaps there's an update. The motion might not be as relevant if the government and the minister can confirm today that they have arrived at a decision with regard to that.
Without that decision I think this is an important and relevant motion. I would be very happy to support it and the work that needs to be done around it.