Deportations rising in advance of amnesty program change

Catholic New Times, July 3, 2005

Immigration authorities have rounded up undocumented construction workers on the eve of an anticipated amnesty program, faith leaders from the Toronto's Hispanic, Brazilian and Portuguese communities recently charged.

The Ecumenical Association of Portuguese and Hispanic Churches, which represents 123 Toronto congregations, vowed to provide church sanctuary for affected "underground" residents, if immigration officials continue their stepped-up enforcement effort.

"There is a cry that the ecumenical community has heard and we cannot stand by as passive observers," Rev. Elias Morales of North Park Presbyterian Church told the Toronto Star.

"We hope Immigration Minister Joe Volpe will listen to us, work with us and find ways to help these people. We hope we don't have to get into the sanctuary situation. But that will be our last resort."

According to the coalition, dozens of community members faced removals and deportations over the last six weeks. As many as 30 people have been picked up daily by officials dispatched to construction sites and people's homes. Until recently, such arrests were irregular, the group said.

People recently rallied in front of Volpe's Toronto office, Volpe said a blanket amnesty of all undocumented people is not possible.

Many undocumented people do low-paid jobs which Canadians don't want.