CEIU pursues full participation in review of refugee system

CEIU has written to the Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism regarding the reforms to the refugee system proposed in the recent Speech from the Throne. The union is seeking to participate in the process that will consider changes to the current framework, and argues that union members at the IRB can provide valuable input.

“We want CEIU members at the IRB to have input into the reforms,” said union president Jeannette Meunier-McKay, “because they are uniquely placed to contribute to the process.”

Here is the text of the letter sent to Minister Kenny:

March 15, 2010

The Honourable Jason Kenney
Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism
House of Commons
Ottawa, ON  K1A 0A6

Dear Mr. Kenney:

In the March 3^rd, 2010 Speech from the Throne, the government proposes “…comprehensive reforms to the refugee system.” As the union representing the majority of staff working at the Immigration and Refugee Board, we are asking that we be included in the process established to consider such reforms.

CEIU members have both considerable knowledge of the issues surrounding refugee determination and practical experience in the operation of a tribunal charged with its implementation. They are in a strong position to provide meaningful input to the reform process and are eager to make their contribution.

On behalf of our union members at the IRB, I am asking that you confirm our full participation in the reform process.

Yours truly,

Jeannette Meunier-McKay

National President
Canada Employment and Immigration Union