Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member for the question to the hon. minister and for his concern for the Dima family.
I would like to inform him that the family has co-operated with immigration officials by returning to the United States where they can apply through the normal channels. The Quebec government has indicated that it will interview the family when they apply from outside Canada.
They have had full benefit of our refugee determination system and they were found not to be refugees. Their case was reviewed under our post-determination risk assessment criteria and the Dima family were found not to be in danger if returned to Romania. They have also had a humanitarian and compassionate review which was negative.
Over 2,900 people immigrated to Canada from Romania in 1994, the vast majority having applied in the normal manner from outside Canada. In fact, in 1993 there were 3,300 entrants into Canada from Romania.
I want to respond to the member's greeting by also wishing you, Mr. Speaker, the member, and everyone else in the House a very pleasant holiday and Easter season.