Honouring the Late Peter Showler, C.M.
Senator Omidvar gave a statement to recognize the late Peter Showler for his many contributions to Canada.
asylum seekers
Canada’s Asylum System is Outdated, says Authors of “Flight and Freedom”
This excerpt from the Toronto Star discusses the book Senator Omidvar co-authored with Dana Wagner in 2015, Flight and Freedom: Stories of Escape to Canada.
Let’s Grant ‘Dreamers’ Their Wish to Become Permanent Residents of Canada
Senator Omidvar outlines why the government should offer asylum-seekers, temporary foreign workers and undocumented workers pathways to permanency.
COVID-19: Canada Locks its Gates to Asylum Seekers
Claire Ellis discusses the impact of the federal government's decision to turn asylum seekers back to the United States.
In Closing Our Borders, Have We Also Closed Our Hearts And Minds?
Senator Omidvar comments on the importance of ensuring that asylum seekers who are turned back to the US are not deported during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Displaced People, Refugees Especially Vulnerable to COVID-19
Rachel Browne of Global News reports that government responses need to consider these populations to avoid a complete disaster.
The Power of Good Intentions
Examining the history of Canada's pioneering private refugee sponsor program and asking important questions about how it can be improved.
The Refugee Crisis: ‘[We should] Stabilize The Hotspots Do People Can Go Back To Their Homes’
In this indepth interview, Senator Omidvar talks about the refugee crisis and the work of the World Refugee Council.
OPINION: Canada’s border is secure but renewal of immigration system is essential
"The whole process is thorough and professional, conducted with respect for our laws and for the individuals. We were both reassured that peace, order and good governance at the border."
OPINION: On Asylum Seekers, Canada Needs Solutions — Not Semantics
"In the short term, Canada must ensure that Canadians have public confidence in the system. Regardless of the numbers of asylum seekers crossing into Canada, it is essential to demonstrate that our systems work, in ordinary and in extraordinary times."