Trudeau Government Proposes Using Federal Prisons to Detain 'High-Risk' Migrants

The Trudeau government has proposed using federal prisons to detain migrants deemed 'high-risk,' sparking outrage from human rights groups who argue the plan violates international law and Canadian values. Immigration Minister Marc Miller confirmed that the government will introduce amendments to enable the use of federal correctional facilities for immigration detention, separating detainees from the general prison population.

The proposal comes after provinces have refused to hold immigration detainees in provincial jails on behalf of the federal government. The government says it had no choice but to turn to federal penitentiaries to accommodate the expected volume of migrants. Miller described the detainees as often having "severe mental health problems" and facing deportation orders.

Why this matters: The government's plan to use federal prisons for immigration detention has raised serious concerns about the treatment and dignity of detainees. The move could set a troubling precedent and undermine Canada's reputation as a nation that upholds human rights and provides refuge to those in need.

Former Liberal ministers Lloyd Axworthy and Allan Rock have strongly criticized the proposal, stating that incarcerating people for immigration purposes violates their fundamental human rights. They argue the plan is inconsistent with Canadian values and a betrayal of the country's standing as a place of refuge. "It's completely unacceptable," human rights organizations have said of the government's intentions.

While the government already operates three immigration holding centers, it says additional facilities are needed to handle the anticipated influx of migrants. However, details on deadlines, specific federal prisons to be used, and housing arrangements have not been provided. The Canadian Border Services Agency detained over 71,000 migrants between 2012 and 2023, mostly for being considered flight risks.

Critics have denounced the Trudeau government's plan to use federal prisons for immigration detention as a "nuclear alternative" that violates international law and Canadian principles. The proposal has been met with fierce opposition from human rights advocates who say it is an unacceptable and inhumane approach to dealing with migrants, many of whom are facing mental health challenges and deportation. The government maintains it is a necessary measure given the lack of provincial cooperation and expected increase in detainees, but has yet to provide specifics on the implementation of the controversial policy.

Key Takeaways

• Trudeau govt proposes using federal prisons to detain 'high-risk' migrants.
• Provinces have refused to hold immigration detainees in provincial jails.
• Critics argue the plan violates human rights and Canadian values.
• Govt says additional facilities needed to handle expected influx of migrants.
• Critics denounce the plan as a "nuclear alternative" that is inhumane.