25,000 Syrian refugees have arrived in Canada


Canada has fulfilled its commitment to resettle 25,000 Syrian refugees by the end of February 2016. The plan was to bring the refugees to Canada without compromising security or health requirements.
“We have reached a significant milestone,” John McCallum, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship said, “but the work continues as we begin to integrate Syrian refugees into our communities. Canadians from coast to coast will have a hand in welcoming, integrating and contributing to the success of our newest community members.”
The arrived refugees are directed to communities where there is settlement support, as well as available schools and housing. Privately sponsored refugees have joined their sponsors’ communities. To integrate into the Canadian society and build their new life, the Syrian newcomers can access employment services, language classes, professional mentorship programs and workshops.
“I would like to recognize and thank our Canadian officials and public servants ,” Jane Philpott, Minister of Health said, “our international partners, the United Nations Refugee Agency, the International Organization for Migration, the Red Cross, as well as the refugee host countries of Jordan, Lebanon, and Turkey. I would also like to thank the provinces and territories for all their work as they have been instrumental in providing the health services to Syrians refugees once they arrived in Canada. Corporate Canada has also been and will continue to be a key partner in this resettlement initiative.”
Canada will continue accepting Syrian refugees. Approximately 8,500 government-supported refugees are expected to arrive in 2016.