July 19, 2017
Manitoba and Minnesota Share Concern Over Safety of Asylum Seekers
Congressman Collin C. Peterson (Minnesota) and Premier Brian Pallister (Manitoba) met recently to discuss the significant economic and security connections between Minnesota and Manitoba. During the meeting, they expressed their shared concern about the growing number of unauthorized asylum seekers attempting to irregularly cross the Northern border from the United States into Canada.
While Minnesota and Manitoba both have a proud history of welcoming refugees fleeing dire circumstances, purposely avoiding physical ports of entry and attempting to cross open countryside to reach Canada from the United States is extremely dangerous. Individuals and groups who attempt this crossing risk serious injury or even death from a wide range of natural hazards including floods, open water, freezing overnight temperatures and the risk of exposure.
“The life-threatening hazards facing potential asylum seekers continue past the end of winter as temperatures and wet conditions still pose significant dangers. The recent, tragic death of a woman attempting to cross the border in northern Kittson County demonstrated the considerable risks being taken to avoid detection when there are safer options in place,” said Congressman Peterson.
Both the United States and Canada have recognized one another as safe destinations for asylum seekers. Under these rules, refugee claims must be made in the country of arrival. It is important for potential asylum seekers to know that they will not automatically gain asylum upon entering Canada, and that their odds of approval are not increased by entering Canada illegally from the United States. Those seeking asylum in Canada must still go through an immigration and refugee process similar to the process that would apply in the United States. Further, asylum decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, and the granting of refugee status is not guaranteed.
Congressman Peterson and Premier Pallister also encouraged communities and landowners on both sides of the international border to be aware of this issue and watch for potential asylum seekers who may be at risk of injury or in distress, and are advised to call for medical assistance or local law enforcement to provide aid.
“As neighbours who share the longest open border in the world, we have a shared obligation to help protect people who are placing themselves and, in many cases, their families at serious risk without realizing the dangers they face from an unfamiliar environment,” said Premier Pallister.
Congressman Peterson and Premier Pallister also expressed concern that continued irregular crossings could begin to attract a human-trafficking element. They called on federal agencies in Canada and the United States to continue their collaboration to strengthen public safety and reduce the risk of human trafficking through enhanced sharing of information.
- 30 -
The Province of Manitoba is issuing this release on behalf the government of Manitoba and Minnesota Congressman Collin C. Peterson.