“I have had the privilege of meeting hundreds of former refugees across Canada,” said Minister Kenney. “I’ve seen first-hand how they bring their hopes and dreams to Canada and enrich our society. Since World War II, Canadians have provided refuge to over one million refugees, and Canada’s commitment to refugee protection remains strong. As a Canadian, I am proud of our long history of helping those in need. I also want to highlight the important role that private sponsors play in helping to bring refugees to Canada,” Minister Kenney added. “In sponsoring refugees to begin a new life here in Canada, these sponsor groups help to ensure a better life of freedom and opportunity for individual refugees and, at the same time, they help to build stronger communities and fulfil the promise of Canada – the most welcoming nation in the world.”

In 2010, more than 12,300 people were granted refugee status in Canada through the Asylum Program. The Government of Canada will now be increasing the total number of refugees resettled by 20 per cent each year. 2,000 privately sponsored refugees will be granted asylum in Canada in addition to 500 or more government-assisted refugees.