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U.S. no longer safe haven; Canada must suspend Safe Third Party Agreement

"It's clear the assumption that the U.S. is a safe country for asylum seekers is no longer accurate. The agreement should be put on hold until the U.S. can guarantee the humane and non-discriminatory treatment of those seeking refuge in the U.S." — Larry Brown, NUPGE President

Ottawa (19 June 2018) — The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) stands in solidarity with our allies, and people around the world, to call out President Trump's inhumane treatment of families entering the United States. "Separating children from their parents is a traumatic experience from which, I fear, many will be unable to recover," said Larry Brown, NUPGE President. "The United States needs to stop these forced separations, and reunite all the families that have undergone this excruciating experience."

"While we are pleased with Prime Minister Trudeau's late remarks condemning the immigration policy, we believe more can be done," said Brown. "We urge the government to suspend the Safe Third Country Agreement. It's clear the assumption that the U.S. is a safe country for asylum seekers is no longer accurate. The agreement should be put on hold until the U.S. can guarentee the humane and non-discriminatory treatment of those seeking refuge in the U.S."

"We hope that the U.S. government tries to repair some of the damage already inflicted on these families by reuniting them with their children," continued Brown. "The international community is watching and will not stand for anything less."

As Canadians, we need to do our part. Voice your concern by contacting your Member of Parliament.