(BCTV) - It comes as a surprise to no one, but it has still re-ignited the controversy over Canada's immigration policies.

Seven of the 76 illegal Chinese migrants who were released after turning up off Vancouver Island last month and were told to report to Immigration once a week, have basically vanished. Catherine Urquhart reports.

Catherine Urquhart, reporting: "Just minutes before the 3 o'clock deadline to check in with Immigration authorities...but not all of them show up."

Rob Johnston, Citizenship & Immigration Enforcement: "For the seven that did not appear, we will be seeking Canada-wide warrants for their apprehension."

John Reynolds, Reform Justice Critic: "Over the past five years - I think the average is pretty close to 80% - do not show up for these hearings once they have asked for (refugee) status. They should have kept them locked up until they found out who they were, what they were..."

Catherine Urquhart, reporting: "The 123 migrants arrived July 20th, off the coast of Vancouver Island. Their decrepit fishing vessel had brought them from China's Fujian province. Should the general public be concerned that seven people have disappeared?"

Rob Johnston, Citizenship & Immigration Enforcement: "Well, I think in the seven cases that they were already offered release...and under terms and conditions. And so if they were offered release, we would have been satisfied they weren't a danger to the public."

John Reynolds, Reform Justice Critic: "They should be sent home. There is a great movement in the Chinese community here in Vancouver, "send these people home," because it is a bad example we are pointing out to the rest of the people in China."

Catherine Urquhart, reporting: "Vancouver's Association of Chinese Canadians believes the missing migrants may have reasonable explanations."

Victor Wong, Assn. of Chinese-Canadians: "There may be some reasons as to why they have not shown up for the role call. Basically, they were all reminded last week that they had to show up yesterday and today. So, for those people that didn't show up, obviously they are in a little bit of trouble."

Catherine Urquhart, reporting: "The seven missing migrants could be in for a lot of trouble. Mailed notices will give them just two weeks to appear before authorities or their immigration applications will be voided."