Mr. Speaker, as the hon. member knows, the daily management of Canada's refugee status determination system is the responsibility of the chairperson of the immigration and refugee board.
It seems to me the hon. member is suggesting that we rush cases through in order to do away with this backlog. This is a reckless and irresponsible suggestion. There needs to be proper attention given to each and every case.
Every aspect of the board's work touches on the lives and liberties of the people who appear before it. We need to take the time required to ensure that people receive a fair and equitable hearing. Often people's safety and security depend on it.
This does not mean to say that the government is not dealing with this backlog. Measures have been taken to address the increase in workload and to improve the board's efficiency and speed. Both the IRB and citizenship and immigration have been working hard to improve the system.
Last December, for example, the Department of Citizenship and Immigration signed an administrative framework agreement with the board. This agreement is designed to increase co-operation and information sharing, which should assist greatly in the process. It also commits the two bodies to find ways to introduce and share advanced technologies which will enhance operational efficiency.
Bill C-49 is another example. The bill is currently before Parliament and contains two provisions which will reduce the refugee division panel from two members to one. This legislative change will improve the efficiency of the IRB while reducing the processing time required to identify refugees needing our protection.
There is a great deal being done. I appeal to hon. members of the House to support this bill. Its swift passage will help alleviate the backlog.