Moncton-Canada is a nation that has been shaped by immigration. With increasing global migration, like many other countries, Canada is experiencing a rise in the number of people claiming asylum. While housing and supports for asylum claimants are the responsibility of provinces and municipalities, the federal government recognizes the need for all levels of government to work together on solutions to address the current need, and we have been there every step of the way.
Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced funding that will ensure impacted communities have the capacity to keep a roof over the heads of vulnerable asylum claimants who want Canada's protection.
This support will come through a one-time injection of approximately $212 million in funding into the Interim Housing Assistance Program (IHAP), which will be extended until March 31, 2024. This includes approximately $97 million in new funding for the City of Toronto. IHAP provides funding on a cost-sharing basis to provinces and municipalities for the costs of interim housing for asylum claimants. Today's funding is in addition to the nearly $700 million already delivered through the program, including over $215 million for the City of Toronto.
In addition to IHAP, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has been working with the most impacted provinces and municipalities to increase the amount of temporary housing. As of early July, IRCC had over 3,800 hotel rooms in six provinces to provide temporary housing to asylum claimants.
The international migration situation requires pan-Canadian co-operation and engagement, and the Government of Canada remains committed to working together to find solutions. The federal government will continue to work closely with provinces and municipalities to ensure that there is support from all levels of government for those seeking refuge in Canada.
