Tuesday, Sep 21

Clayton C. Ruby

Tuesday, September 21, 1999

Toronto -- There is much fussing about Chinese immigrants. The problem is relatively simple. We cannot effectively deal with the criminals behind the smuggling by means of criminal law, because they are secure in China, relatively immune from the reach of Canadian law enforcement. Nor is China likely to make their apprehension a priority at our request.

But the entire enterprise depends upon Canadian lethargy. We are unwilling to pay enough money to hold refugee hearings quickly, i.e., within 30 days. If the government would simply do that, then bail would not be an option for most visitors without visas, and the only incentive -- release on bail and subsequent escape into Canadian or American society -- would cease to exist. The supply of unqualified refugees would dry up. At the same time, with minimal inconvenience, genuine refugees would find the sanctuary Canada has promised them by signing international treaties.

It is rare that you can solve a complex problem with money. But when you can, it is foolish not to do so.