- Foiled Terror Plots: Three men were accused of plotting attacks, raising alarms about Canada’s screening processes. One of the individuals was in Canada on a student visa, while another had already secured Canadian citizenship.
- Liberal Policy Change: In 2018, the Liberal government removed the requirement for police clearance certificates from certain countries for short-term visas, such as student visas. This decision has come under fire, especially since police certificates are still required for permanent residency applications.
- Conservative Criticism: Conservative members of the committee grilled Miller on this policy change, arguing that it potentially opened the door for individuals with criminal backgrounds to enter the country. They pointed to the recent terror plots as evidence that stricter security measures are necessary.
Ottawa – The federal immigration minister is under intense scrutiny after two foiled terror plots in Canada revealed potential security gaps in the student visa process. The incidents have raised critical questions from a parliamentary committee on National Security and Public Safety, leaving Immigration Minister Mark Miller to explain how these individuals, including one on a student visa and another who was granted citizenship, managed to enter the country.
Despite mounting concerns, Miller stood by the current immigration system, which relies heavily on biometric data to vet visa applicants. He asserted that Canada’s security checks are effective, although recent events have cast doubt on the robustness of these measures.
Key Points:
Miller’s Defense: Miller acknowledged the criticism but cautioned against assuming that requiring police certificates for student visas would have automatically prevented the terror plots. “I think we should disabuse ourselves of the notion that Canada is hermetically sealed and that one procedure would have stopped something,” he said, referring to the biometric system in place.
Review Pending: The minister has promised a review of the security screening process, with findings expected to be made public in the coming weeks. Whether or not the government will reinstate the police certificate requirement for student visas remains unclear.
With security concerns rising and public pressure mounting, the government will need to address how it can strengthen visa screening procedures without undermining its immigration goals.