The Latest Decision To Provide Aid to Palestinians Fleeing From Gaza To Reunite With Canadian Family Is A Step in the Right Direction

October 16th, 2024 National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) welcomes the latest decision by the Ministry of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship to provide Palestinians fleeing mass violence in the Gaza Strip with transitional financial assistance and other services after they arrive in Canada.

After much consistent advocacy by communities across Canada, including those who have family members in Gaza coming to Canada, this latest step is a positive move in terms of fulfilling our obligation to Palestinians fleeing one of the worst disasters of our time.

“This is an important step forward,” said NCCM CEO Stephen Brown. “Our community has been adamant and consistent in advocating for Palestinians coming into Canada, who are often left with little assistance while navigating a new situation. This latest move is a positive start.”

This financial assistance will apply to all Gazans coming into Canada, whether they have applied through the special temporary immigration pathway for extended family or as regular temporary visa holders.

In addition to the financial assistance, they will also receive three months of temporary health coverage, settlement services in areas like school enrollment, job searching, and the ability to apply for fee-exempt study or open work permits.

Those civilians coming to Canada from Gaza are escaping one of the worst catastrophes of our time. Their ability to access humanitarian assistance remains the responsibility of all Canadians who are committed to upholding human rights.

We can still achieve more to fulfill this responsibility. This latest development is a good step in the right direction.