In closing, I'll say that Canada's asylum system does not fail because refugee claimants lack potential. It falters when bureaucracy delays work and legal stability for people who are neighbours, workers and taxpayers.
Madam Chair, the recommendations before you are practical, targeted and backed by years of frontline experience. They would reduce administrative pressure, uphold Canada's legal obligations and unlock the immense potential of refugee claimants in this country.
Canada has the capacity and responsibility to build an asylum system that is fair and functional and that recognizes the talents and contributions of refugee claimants. By exploring these recommendations, not only will our defining values as a country be upheld but our crucial and foundational institutions will also be strengthened.
Thank you.