In addition, we use our whole-of-government strategy to disrupt migrant smuggling attempts destined for Canada by land, air or sea, and to assist migrants stranded as a result of these activities.
We will continue to work with domestic law enforcement agencies and international partners to combat international criminal organizations that seek to profit from the desperation and vulnerability of others.
We also have measures in place to help connect victims to the services they need. IRCC may issue temporary resident permits to out-of-status human trafficking victims so that they can access physical and mental health services and prescription drug coverage through the interim federal health program. These temporary resident permits also allow them to apply for work and study permits at the same time, and we waive some processing fees.
Workers on employer-specific work permits who experience abuse from their employer are also eligible to apply for an open work permit for vulnerable workers. This is to help them leave abusive situations without jeopardizing their ability to continue working in Canada, if applicable.
Between 2015 and 2023, IRCC issued 906 temporary resident permits to foreign national victims of human trafficking and their dependents. In addition, between July 2019 and December 2023, we issued 4,857 open work permits for vulnerable workers.
Another measure we’ve collectively taken is the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline. This toll-free hotline is available 24/7 and in 200 languages—including 27 indigenous languages—to receive reports of suspected cases of human trafficking and connect victims to community supports.
We will continue to use all of the tools at our disposal to curb these heinous crimes and ensure the safety of vulnerable migrants.
Thank you, and I will now take your questions.