The Conservative Party of Canada is set to introduce a motion in the House of Commons aimed at revising the health benefits available to asylum seekers, while also advocating for the immediate deportation of foreign nationals convicted of crimes within the country. This initiative, led by Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, seeks to tighten access to healthcare services for those claiming asylum, amidst rising costs and increasing demand on the system.
Proposed Changes to Asylum Seekers’ Health Benefits
In a video released on social media, Poilievre expressed his party’s determination to combat what he perceives as the exploitation of Canada’s healthcare system by foreign criminals and fraudulent refugee claimants. He highlighted a recent report from the parliamentary budget officer (PBO), which projected that the cost of the interim federal health program could escalate to a staggering £1.5 billion annually by the fiscal year 2028-29.
This health program currently provides a range of medical services to asylum seekers, refugees, and certain protected persons, including routine check-ups, hospital visits, lab tests, and supplementary services like dental care and mental health therapy. The motion calls for a thorough review of these benefits, proposing that asylum seekers appealing denied claims should only receive emergency medical care.
Rising Number of Beneficiaries
The PBO’s report indicates a significant surge in the number of individuals relying on the interim federal health program, with beneficiaries rising from approximately 200,000 in 2020-21 to an estimated 624,000 by 2024-25. Most of these individuals are seeking asylum, and the Immigration and Refugee Board currently has around 300,000 pending claims.
In response to questions about the asylum system, Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab noted a decrease in asylum claims, reporting a drop from about 190,000 in 2024 to nearly 108,000 in 2025. She emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to address misuse within the asylum process, referencing Bill C-12, which aims to streamline the processing of claims and establish stricter eligibility criteria for asylum seekers.
Legislative Measures and Healthcare Costs
Bill C-12, introduced in November, proposes several significant measures, including disqualifying individuals from claiming asylum if they have been in Canada for over a year or if they claimed asylum after a delay of more than 14 days upon entry via the land border with the United States. The bill also seeks to ensure that claims are only adjudicated when claimants are physically present in Canada, facilitating immediate removal orders when claims are withdrawn.
Furthermore, the federal government plans to implement a co-payment system for supplementary coverage and prescription drugs under the interim federal health program, set to begin on May 1. These changes were first announced in the November federal budget as part of an initiative to achieve a 15% reduction in spending over the next three years.
Historical Context of Health Coverage for Refugees
The issue of health benefits for refugees in Canada has a complex history. During Stephen Harper’s tenure as Prime Minister, his government imposed restrictions on supplementary health coverage for privately sponsored refugees and those who made claims upon arrival. In a landmark ruling in 2014, the Federal Court found these restrictions violated the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Although the Conservatives appealed this decision, the Liberal government chose to drop the appeal after taking office in 2015, subsequently restoring the program.
Addressing Crime and Deportation
In conjunction with the proposed changes to health benefits, Poilievre’s motion seeks to ensure that foreign nationals convicted of crimes serve their full sentences and face complete deportation upon serving their time. Current Canadian law allows for the deportation of foreign nationals and permanent residents convicted of crimes, provided the sentences meet specific criteria.
The Conservative Party argues that these measures are essential to safeguarding Canadian citizens and maintaining the integrity of the nation’s asylum system. However, critics express concern about the potential implications for vulnerable populations seeking refuge in Canada.
Why it Matters
This proposed motion by the Conservative Party underscores a pivotal moment in Canada’s approach to asylum seekers and healthcare. As the debate intensifies, the implications of these changes could significantly alter the landscape for refugees and asylum claimants in Canada. Striking a balance between safeguarding public resources and ensuring care for the most vulnerable will be a critical challenge for policymakers. The outcome of this motion may not only influence the health and well-being of thousands but also shape the broader narrative surrounding immigration and asylum in Canada for years to come.
