Union warns Immigration Department cuts will further delay backlogged court cases
A union representing federal Immigration Department employees is raising concerns about planned layoffs that could further strain the already overwhelmed courts dealing with delayed immigration cases in Canada’s largest cities.
According to CBC News, the union obtained a layoff notice sent to an analyst on Feb. 11, asking them to consider accepting a buyout or face losing their job as part of a three-year plan to reduce the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) workforce. These analysts play a crucial role in reviewing case files, conducting legal research, and briefing government lawyers.
Rubina Boucher, president of the Canada Employment and Immigration Union, expressed worries about the impact of these layoffs on the Justice Department, which is already struggling with budget cuts causing delays in immigration-related matters nationwide. Boucher emphasized the importance of attracting top talent from around the world to support Canada’s growth and development.
Last December, the chief justices of Canada’s federal courts issued a rare public statement highlighting the backlog of 500 immigration cases in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver that exceeded the 90-day limit. They anticipated a significant increase in immigration and refugee case filings, posing a challenge for the already burdened court system.
The Canadian Bar Association shares the union’s concerns, noting that the removal of personnel involved in the litigation process could lead to additional burdens on the already strained system. Kamaljit Kaur Lehal, chair of the association’s immigration section, emphasized the vital role litigation analysts play in providing strategic risk assessments and expressed concerns about a potential rise in litigation in the Federal Court.
The lack of a clear timeline for the layoffs has caused anxiety and uncertainty among IRCC employees. The union criticized the vague letters sent to 1,000 employees across all branches, advising members not to respond until more clarity is provided.
IRCC stated that it aims to minimize job losses through attrition and internal redeployment, emphasizing that affected employees will not face immediate changes in their employment status. The department highlighted its commitment to managing taxpayers’ dollars responsibly and collaborating with the Justice Department to address urgent priorities.
Justice Minister Arif Virani’s office allocated $3.19 million in December to assist the Federal Court in managing the rising immigration caseloads. The budget from the previous year already included $273.7 million over five years for immigration and refugee cases, demonstrating the government’s commitment to addressing the backlog.
Despite the challenges posed by the planned layoffs, the government remains flexible and committed to finding solutions to alleviate the strain on the court system. Collaboration between various departments and a focus on efficient resource allocation are essential to ensuring the timely resolution of immigration cases and supporting Canada’s immigration process.
