Thank you.
Good afternoon.
Thank you for the opportunity to discuss the provincial distribution of asylum claimants in Canada.
With the recent passing into law of the Strengthening Canada's Immigration System and Borders Act, Bill C-12, the government is introducing targeted reforms to strengthen how we protect people in need, manage migration responsibly and maintain Canadians' trust in a system that works for everyone. This means a system that protects the vulnerable, attracts needed talent and prevents misuse.
Asylum claimants are already in Canada and seek our protection. We know that the higher numbers of claimants arriving since 2021 have created pressures for our partners, provinces, municipalities and civil society organizations.
We are now seeing decreases in the number of asylum claims thanks to our efforts to strengthen integrity and fairness in our asylum system. As of March 31, 2026, asylum claims have dropped 35% compared to the same period last year and 59% since 2024.
We know that claims continue to be made disproportionately in Ontario and Quebec. Since 2021, high volumes of asylum claimants have placed additional strain on those provinces’ emergency shelters and support services, leading to calls for federal support. We take this situation very seriously.
Through the interim housing assistance program, the government has invested about $1.9 billion since 2019. This has resulted in more sustainable, cost-effective housing solutions for asylum claimants. By funding spaces like reception centres and transitional housing, this program has reduced reliance on emergency shelters and hotels while helping claimants find stable housing faster.
We are taking a collaborative approach that encourages relocation of claimants and ensures that provinces that receive the asylum claimants have the capacity to welcome them.
In 2024, The Forum of Ministers Responsible for Immigration established a working group to look at practical ways to manage the flow of asylum claimants across Canada. IRCC carried that work forward, holding direct conversations with provinces and territories interested in voluntary relocation.
These conversations led to agreements with New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador to assist with the voluntary relocation of asylum claimants. Over the next two years, these provinces committed to welcoming 290 and 400 claimants respectively. These relocation efforts aim to help support the housing independence of claimants and fill labour market gaps. As of March 31, 2026, over 290 claimants have voluntarily relocated there.
IRCC continues to engage with provinces and territories to encourage additional voluntary relocation agreements.
I want to emphasize that these agreements do not amount to mandatory distribution or federal imposition. Any relocation depends entirely on the willingness of claimants and the receiving jurisdictions, based on local capacity, available support and labour market needs.
The Government of Canada appreciates the significant role that provincial and municipal partners, along with civil society organizations, play in providing temporary shelter and support services to asylum claimants. We strive for a sustainable approach that works across all orders of government and with all partners.
Thank you. We look forward to your questions.