The MWSN along with Immigration Partnership Winnipeg, Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba, the Social Planning Council of Winnipeg, and Migrante, have asked candidates in the upcoming Winnipeg City Council election to provide their position on an Access Without Fear Policy for the City of Winnipeg.
An Access Without Fear Policy ensures that all residents, including undocumented migrants, have access to all city services regardless of their immigration status. Many municipalities in Canada, such as Toronto, Montreal, Edmonton, Hamilton, and Vancouver have adopted Access Without Fear Policies to reduce the barriers faced by undocumented migrants in accessing critical services. An Access Without Fear Policy is one of the recommendations in the Winnipeg Without Poverty Report, endorsed by over 90 community organizations.
We asked each candidate to answer questions on the contribution of immigrants to Winnipeg, the impact of municipal services on immigrants and migrants, undocumented migrants and barriers they face to accessing city services, and an Access Without Fear policy.
We have broken down the responses by ward, which you can access by clicking one of the links below.
Wards:
Charleswood – Tuxedo
Daniel McIntyre
Elmwood – East Kildonan
Fort Rouge – East Fort Garry
Mynarski
North Kildonan
Old Kildonan
Point Douglas
River Heights – Fort Garry
St. Boniface
St. James
St. Norbert – Seine River
St. Vital
Transcona
Charleswood – Tuxedo
Candidates: Kevin Klein, Kevin Nichols, Grant Nordman, Ken St. George
1. Immigrants make many valuable contributions to our city. Please provide some examples of these contributions.
KLEIN:
NICHOLS: With any group comes different ideas and different ways of doing things, what works in other countries may not have been thought of here. Immigrants provide a diverse workforce and different points of view. They may also fill voids in our workforce such as doctors and nurses.
NORDMAN:
ST. GEORGE: During my tenure as a front line service provider, and my work within the non profit sector, I hold significant value in the multicultural melting pot of Winnipeg. I see communities filled with pride, hard working individuals who want to be accepted by their new environment, deep sense of family and culture, skills, innovation, and contributions to our local and small business.
2. Immigrants and migrants live in our city and rely on the same city services as everyone else. What municipal services in Winnipeg have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants?
KLEIN:
NICHOLS: Public transportation plays a major role and has a significant impact on the quality of life. providing services in different languages also can be beneficial to immigrants to this City.
NORDMAN:
ST. GEORGE: Considering that many immigrants and migrants are in a vulnerable state, they may require utilization of front line respondents if they are recognized as vulnerable or are being targeted. As well, many day to day services we all use and pay for including garbage/recycling pick up, street clearing, Transit is the likely has the most impact for our immigrant population.
3. In your understanding, how do migrants become undocumented in Canada?
KLEIN:
NICHOLS: I do not have an understanding of this as this is more federal than civic, but if I had to answer, I would say if they break the law, this would cause them to be undocumented, I believe losing their job may also cause this.
NORDMAN:
ST. GEORGE: My understanding is that if an individual has landed in Canada, however did not apply for the prerequisites of Canadian citizenship such as SIN application, temporary work/school visa, failure to undergo security screening, and medical examinations.
4. What reasons prevent undocumented immigrants in Winnipeg from accessing city services?
KLEIN:
NICHOLS: Loss of residency, loss of job, permit expiration.
NORDMAN:
ST. GEORGE: I believe many do not access services for fear of deportation. There are some community service providers in place who assist in settling newly landed immigrants, however they are underfunded and overwhelmed. This must change, and I have a plan to tackle the issue…
5. What is your view on the City of Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status?
KLEIN:
NICHOLS: After briefly reading the document provided, I would stand behind you to ensure there are guaranteed access to city services.
NORDMAN:
ST. GEORGE: Absolutely supported. Despite shortfalls in documentation, these folks are part of our community. Let’s support their endeavor to become documented, and never deny service or intimidate using threatening tactics of deportation.
Daniel McIntyre
Candidates: Josh Brandon, Cindy Gilroy, Sarowar Miah
1. Immigrants make many valuable contributions to our city. Please provide some examples of these contributions.
BRANDON: Over 10,000 newcomers make Winnipeg home every year. This contributes economically, culturally and socially to our community. These contributions are most evident in my ward of Daniel McIntyre where we have people from all over the world making their home. I think of the amazing revitalization of Central Park thanks to the work of newcomers and newcomer organizations. We also see the importance of newcomer entrepreneurs along Sargent and Ellice with the many newcomer owned shops and restaurants. Newcomers take up important roles as workers in every industry, in medicine, the arts and as educators in our community. Newcomers are at the heart of making Winnipeg the heart of the continent.
GILROY: Immigrants provide a contribution both socially and economically by becoming productive members of the community.
MIAH:
2. Immigrants and migrants live in our city and rely on the same city services as everyone else. What municipal services in Winnipeg have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants?
BRANDON: All Winnipeggers depend on quality municipal services, but newcomers often even more so. Newcomers often do not have a Manitoba drivers license, so depend on public transit. Newcomers were disproportionately affected by increases in bus fares in 2018, especially since many have low incomes. Newcomers also depend on library services which provide English and other language reading materials as well as opportunities for social integration and connection. Recreation programs offer affordable ways for newcomers to stay healthy and socialize. Also, like other Winnipeggers, newcomers want to live in safe communities and depend on a high-quality, well-trained Winnipeg Police Service.
GILROY: Quality of life services which are important to immigrants include affordable transit, emergency services (police, fire & ambulance), language services and social support services.
MIAH:
3. In your understanding, how do migrants become undocumented in Canada?
BRANDON: Some immigrants come to Canada through irregular border crossings and do not have documentation. This represents a minority of undocumented immigrants. Many others come on student, work or tourist visas and stay in Canada for various reasons after their visas have expired. Other undocumented immigrants have applied for, but been denied, refugee status. The story of each undocumented immigrant is unique, and we need to recognize each as a person endowed with rights treating them with compassion and respect.
GILROY: Immigrants often become undocumented when they come as temporary workers (farm workers, nannies for example) and do not return. Some are abused by their sponsor and flee for their own safety and they are afraid to the police.
MIAH:
4. What reasons prevent undocumented immigrants in Winnipeg from accessing city services?
BRANDON: Some fear that if they request city services, their status may be discovered, putting their ability to stay in Canada at risk. For example, they may be fearful to contact the police, even when they are the victim of a crime, because the police may communicate with immigration officials. Other undocumented immigrants may not be able to access programs because they lack accepted identification to obtain services. There may be language barriers as well for some undocumented immigrants similar to some other newcomers. The city should work to address these barriers through an Access Without Fear policy.
GILROY: The main reason undocumented residence don’t access city services is fear that their undocumented status will be made known and they will be deported.
MIAH:
5. What is your view on the City of Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status?
BRANDON: I have put this in my campaign literature stating that I believe all residents should have access to city services regardless of ethnic origin or citizenship. If elected, I will work towards Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear policy.
GILROY: I support the Access Without Fear policy, I have advocated for it and will continue to do so.
MIAH:
Elmwood – East Kildonan
Candidates: Robb Massey, Jason Schreyer
1. Immigrants make many valuable contributions to our city. Please provide some examples of these contributions.
MASSEY: My friends who are immigrants are among the most hopeful and hardworking people I know. Even more, I am given courage when I speak with the children of immigrants because they have big plans and lofty dreams. This inspires me to be a good host and to welcome both immigrants and refugees.
SCHREYER:
2. Immigrants and migrants live in our city and rely on the same city services as everyone else. What municipal services in Winnipeg have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants?
MASSEY: Transit is a key resource that is lacking in its effectiveness in Winnipeg. This is especially important when parents must transport their children to daycare before going to work and school.
Access to affordable and familiar groceries is also a key need that a city can help with or hinder.
SCHREYER:
3. In your understanding, how do migrants become undocumented in Canada?
MASSEY: Some cross the border and claim refugee status, then disappear. Others come on student visas and when they are unable to renew them, they stay.
SCHREYER:
4. What reasons prevent undocumented immigrants in Winnipeg from accessing city services?
MASSEY: Fear of having to leave, jail time or worse. Myths and rumours. Public opinion. Language challenges. Finding alternate ways to meet their needs.
SCHREYER:
5. What is your view on the City of Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status?
MASSEY: I would want to see examples of how this is working. In theory it fits with the Canadian value of hospitality but I would be interested in knowing if this is even possible. Both fears on the part of undocumented immigrants and the need for perceived public safety would be a challenge to address.
SCHREYER:
Fort Rouge – East Fort Garry
Candidates: Peter Koroma, Stephanie Meilleur, Jeff Palmer, Sherri Rollins, Bryanna Spina, Michael Thompson, Harry Wolbert
1. Immigrants make many valuable contributions to our city. Please provide some examples of these contributions.
KOROMA:
MEILLEUR:
PALMER:
ROLLINS: Absolutely. Immigration has a positive contribution. Examples are multiple including positive economic, demographic, humanitarian, contributions that meet our Winnipegs social and demographic goals.
SPINA: Diversity. Immigrants hold many positions in the community – small business owners, educators, support workers, health care providers, advocators.
THOMPSON: Jobs, taxes, businesses
WOLBERT:
2. Immigrants and migrants live in our city and rely on the same city services as everyone else. What municipal services in Winnipeg have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants?
KOROMA:
MEILLEUR:
PALMER:
ROLLINS: All of them. As a school trustee I have been most concerned with educational access and opportunity for everyone and in particular immigrants, refugees and migrants. As a city councillor candidate this remains true. Knocking on doors as a candidate I remain focused and concerned with socio-economic and cultural factors that enhance (or threaten to detract) quality of life, and welcoming reception into local neighbourhoods that promote a sense of belonging, social comfort, and reception in Winnipeg.
SPINA: Transit, libraries, community centres, active transportation networks, police services.
THOMPSON: Public Transit, Libraries, Community Centres
WOLBERT:
3. In your understanding, how do migrants become undocumented in Canada?
KOROMA:
MEILLEUR:
PALMER:
ROLLINS: People in Canada as well as others around the world do not have easy access to basic documentation like birth certificates. People become undocumented for a variety of reasons including this access. Also, they may have never intended to come to Canada with intentions to stay only in the United States, for instance. Situations develop, or there is a trigger point, and they cross without documentation.
SPINA: In many ways. Expired work permits or student visas, refugees, change in permanent resident status.
THOMPSON: Crossing illegally over the border
WOLBERT:
4. What reasons prevent undocumented immigrants in Winnipeg from accessing city services?
KOROMA:
MEILLEUR:
PALMER:
ROLLINS: Bad policy and insufficient protection that not only prevent access, but keep people vulnerable are to blame. Also, in terms of policy and solidarity work there is a lack of focus on food security, health, housing and education. We need to provide services equal to all, accessible to all, regardless of immigration status. A solidarity and sanctuary city policy, education and implementation strategy is needed.
SPINA: Lack of documents needed to register for services. Fear of being deported or detained if found or when seeking help.
THOMPSON: Language, culture or education
WOLBERT:
5. What is your view on the City of Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status?
KOROMA:
MEILLEUR:
PALMER:
ROLLINS: Generally favourable, it’s a good start. However, worried it would not go far enough. Winnipeg residents without full legal status need protection and face significant barriers to access. Insofar as an Access Without Fear would work towards Winnipeg as a sanctuary city I would be in favour. However the policy would need to ensure that no municipal funds, resources or workers are used as enforcement tools for federal immigration laws.
SPINA: I see it has having a positive impact on those in need.
THOMPSON: In support of
WOLBERT:
Mynarski
Candidates: Dave Capar, Ross Eadie, Greg Littlejohn, Micheal Wiens
1. Immigrants make many valuable contributions to our city. Please provide some examples of these contributions.
CAPAR:
EADIE: growth in the economy, diverse thinking, respect of the international community, and an eagerness to build Winnipeg
LITTLEJOHN:
WIENS:
2. Immigrants and migrants live in our city and rely on the same city services as everyone else. What municipal services in Winnipeg have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants?
CAPAR:
EADIE: All city services with a priority level for each service as any other Winnipegger.
LITTLEJOHN:
WIENS:
3. In your understanding, how do migrants become undocumented in Canada?
CAPAR:
EADIE: Not totally sure, but I tried to assist two temporary workers from being deported because idiott employers wrecked their ability to provide for their families.
LITTLEJOHN:
WIENS:
4. What reasons prevent undocumented immigrants in Winnipeg from accessing city services?
CAPAR:
EADIE: Fear of being caught and deported to a place not safe or able to sustain their lives.
LITTLEJOHN:
WIENS:
5. What is your view on the City of Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status?
CAPAR:
EADIE: I met with representatives and explained I support such a policy.
LITTLEJOHN:
WIENS:
North Kildonan
Candidates: Jeff Browaty, Andrew Podolecki
1. Immigrants make many valuable contributions to our city. Please provide some examples of these contributions.
BROWATY: Immigrants serve an important component of our labour market. Policies targeted to areas where we have skills shortages should be promoted.
PODOLECKI:
2. Immigrants and migrants live in our city and rely on the same city services as everyone else. What municipal services in Winnipeg have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants?
BROWATY: Services like libraries and recreation centres provide important resources and a way to integrate into our community.
PODOLECKI:
3. In your understanding, how do migrants become undocumented in Canada?
BROWATY: Unsure.
PODOLECKI:
4. What reasons prevent undocumented immigrants in Winnipeg from accessing city services?
BROWATY: Unsure.
PODOLECKI:
5. What is your view on the City of Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status?
BROWATY: While taxpaying Winnipeg residents should come first when it comes to accessing scarce City services, I am open to exploring providing services to residents of all types of immigration status where appropriate.
PODOLECKI:
Old Kildonan
Candidates: Bradley Gross, Devi Sharma, Kaur Sidhu
1. Immigrants make many valuable contributions to our city. Please provide some examples of these contributions.
GROSS:
SHARMA:
SIDHU:
2. Immigrants and migrants live in our city and rely on the same city services as everyone else. What municipal services in Winnipeg have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants?
GROSS:
SHARMA:
SIDHU:
3. In your understanding, how do migrants become undocumented in Canada?
GROSS:
SHARMA:
SIDHU:
4. What reasons prevent undocumented immigrants in Winnipeg from accessing city services?
GROSS:
SHARMA:
SIDHU:
5. What is your view on the City of Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status?
GROSS:
SHARMA:
SIDHU:
Point Douglas
Candidates: Dean Koshelanyk, Vivian Santos, Kate Sjoberg
1. Immigrants make many valuable contributions to our city. Please provide some examples of these contributions.
KOSHELANYK:
SANTOS:
SJOBERG: Immigrants are a part of every line of work, volunteering, and all other kinds of community contributions in Winnipeg- aside from the ‘host’ roles and work that Indigenous communities/First Peoples do and perform. They are an integral part of the fabric of our city.
2. Immigrants and migrants live in our city and rely on the same city services as everyone else. What municipal services in Winnipeg have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants?
KOSHELANYK:
SANTOS:
SJOBERG: Municipal services can be a great opportunity for employment for many newcomers- I’m glad to see the effort put into ensuring that newcomers have increased access to job opportunities within the Municipal government.
Recreation centres can offer a helpful function in terms of opportunities for youth and families to belong, get active, access learning opportunities, and be involved in community projects.
Libraries play a role in supporting newcomers to orient themselves to a new community, and often play a support role in language learning, school and job applications, and locating resources.
All city services have the potential to support good quality of life for all Winnipeggers.
Unfortunately, sometimes, interactions with City services are not positive, especially for racialised people- whether newcomer or not. We continue to hear reports of racialised people receiving unfair treatment from the police, for example. This can be both dangerous and scary for individuals and families, especially when there is a language barrier, and can leave lifelong imprints.
3. In your understanding, how do migrants become undocumented in Canada?
KOSHELANYK:
SANTOS:
SJOBERG: This can happen in a number of ways depending on status.
Temporary Workers are at risk of losing their status as a result of lost or missing paperwork, employer misconduct, or breakdown of the employment relationship.
If a refugee claimant fails to fulfill certain requirements on time, if their paperwork is missing or incomplete, or if their claim is denied but they are not immediately removed, they may lose their status.
Visitors and Students can lose their status if they remain in Canada after their permits have expired (i.e. because of a lack of finances, conflicts in their home countries, gaps in processing paperwork to regularize their status, and many other reasons).
Permanent residents can lose their status if they fail to maintain residency requirements, if a sponsorship relationship breaks down when a sponsor becomes unable or unwilling to provide for the basic needs of their sponsored spouse, or if they are convicted of an offense, no matter how minor.
4. What reasons prevent undocumented immigrants in Winnipeg from accessing city services?
KOSHELANYK:
SANTOS:
SJOBERG: Perhaps the worst potential impact of being undocumented is fear of interaction with police services due to a fear of deportation, which could impact one’s likelihood of reporting a crime, requesting police assistance, or making a complaint about police work.
However, being undocumented can prevent access to city services that can significantly improve quality of life. While many services do not require ID documents (such as accessing a library card), the fear of interacting with a city official to obtain such access because of the potential of being outed can reduce likelihood of participation.
5. What is your view on the City of Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status?
KOSHELANYK:
SANTOS:
SJOBERG: I support it!
River Heights – Fort Garry
Candidates: Gary Lenko, John Orlikow, Garth Steek
1. Immigrants make many valuable contributions to our city. Please provide some examples of these contributions.
LENKO:
ORLIKOW: As we all know, Winnipeg has relied in the past, and continues to rely on, the entrepreneurship and ingenuity of new Canadians to grow our economy. Our indigenous and natural born Canadians are equal contributors to the social and economic fabric of our city, but, without the number of new Canadians, both immigrants and refugees, choosing to come to make Winnipeg home, we would not be able to grow our society.
STEEK:
2. Immigrants and migrants live in our city and rely on the same city services as everyone else. What municipal services in Winnipeg have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants?
LENKO:
ORLIKOW: As the question states, all members rely on city services. Each service in and of itself would have importance to all in our community. How much of an importance would depend on the person themselves and how they value that service to their own quality of life and for that of their family.
STEEK:
3. In your understanding, how do migrants become undocumented in Canada?
LENKO:
ORLIKOW: A person who has been granted status in Canada on a work permit, a student visa, temporary visitor’s visa or are having a permanent resident or refugee application being processed from within Canada may lose their status if they:
1. No longer meet the criteria as outlined in their document application;
2. Are in between applications and are awaiting a decision on an application;
3. Do not leave Canada after the status document expirees;
In addition, if a person enters Canada without receiving approval they too can be listed as undocumented.
STEEK:
4. What reasons prevent undocumented immigrants in Winnipeg from accessing city services?
LENKO:
ORLIKOW: Currently, I have not been made aware of any case where a person who did not hold status in Canada was refused service by a civic employee or city department. I am aware of certain employment standards that would not grant employment opportunities to individuals who did not hold a valid social insurance number, but this standard would apply to any person whether they were Canadian born or held citizenship in another country. I can appreciate how a person may be concerned to seek assistance or service from a civic agency or employee due to their status. However, I feel the city as a whole has made great attempts to ensure that all civic services are available fairly and equitably.
STEEK:
5. What is your view on the City of Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status?
LENKO:
ORLIKOW: I am aware that this matter was raised with the Citizens Equity Committee. I support the effort to have this proposal reviewed and should I be re-elected, I would support the administration to explore all city guidelines and see how this proposal could be adopted in Winnipeg.
STEEK:
St. Boniface
Candidates: Matt Allard, Marcel Boille
1. Immigrants make many valuable contributions to our city. Please provide some examples of these contributions.
ALLARD: They they grow our economy, cultural diversity, our population, and provide links between our city and the rest of the world.
BOILLE:
2. Immigrants and migrants live in our city and rely on the same city services as everyone else. What municipal services in Winnipeg have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants?
ALLARD: Public Transportation, on new and old Canadians alike.
BOILLE:
3. In your understanding, how do migrants become undocumented in Canada?
ALLARD: They overstay their visas, or have them revoked, or make an unofficial land border crossing.
BOILLE:
4. What reasons prevent undocumented immigrants in Winnipeg from accessing city services?
ALLARD: Fear of deportation, lack of access to proper identification, lack of English or French profiency, cultural barriers.
BOILLE:
5. What is your view on the City of Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status?
ALLARD: I think this is a worthwhile project to explore.
BOILLE:
St. James
Candidates: Shawn Dobson, Scott Gillingham, Kurt Morton
1. Immigrants make many valuable contributions to our city. Please provide some examples of these contributions.
DOBSON:
GILLINGHAM:
MORTON: Immigrants to Winnipeg make many valuable contributions to our city. They are friends, family members, workers, and business owners.
2. Immigrants and migrants live in our city and rely on the same city services as everyone else. What municipal services in Winnipeg have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants?
DOBSON:
GILLINGHAM:
MORTON: Any municipal services in Winnipeg can have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants. From recreation complexes and after school drop in centres, all the way to police services in time of crisis, municipal services are important.
3. In your understanding, how do migrants become undocumented in Canada?
DOBSON:
GILLINGHAM:
MORTON: Temporary foreign workers with employment issues, refugees who run into paperwork or claim issues, or permanent residents who lose a sponsor or are convicted of a minor offense.
4. What reasons prevent undocumented immigrants in Winnipeg from accessing city services?
DOBSON:
GILLINGHAM:
MORTON: Fear of being detained and risking deportation if a city worker or police informs federal immigration officials.
5. What is your view on the City of Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status?
DOBSON:
GILLINGHAM:
MORTON: I support an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status.
St. Norbert – Seine River
Candidates: Markus Chambers, Glenn Churchill, Nancy Cooke, Chris Davis, Nikolas Joyal
1. Immigrants make many valuable contributions to our city. Please provide some examples of these contributions.
CHAMBERS: Internationally trained skilled workers provide skills and experience in our labour market where these skills do not currently exist or are in limited supply. Economically, they purchase houses and contents for their houses upon arrival which assist in keeping the economy growing. Immigrants also provide diversity in the workplace which offers varying perspectives on culture, skills training and may also extend to opening new international markets for businesses.
CHURCHILL:
COOKE:
DAVIS:
JOYAL: Immigrants bring new cultures and traditions to the city, helping to grow the city and it’s diversity. Immigrants also improve the job market, not only by working existing jobs but by opening restaurants and businesses that further grow the economy.
2. Immigrants and migrants live in our city and rely on the same city services as everyone else. What municipal services in Winnipeg have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants?
CHAMBERS: Newcomers to the city will rely on recreation services to assist in the settlement of their families. Additionally, navigating for their immediate needs may also require frequent calls to 311 to determine how and where to register for to receive various services as a new homeowner.
CHURCHILL:
COOKE:
DAVIS:
JOYAL: The services that have a significant impact are social services. These could include facilities such as community centres, which allow newcomers to meet their community and provide families with access to programs and activities for young children. A well run transit service is also important. Ensuring that immigrants are able to get around without having to rely on a car allows them to access services throughout the city.
3. In your understanding, how do migrants become undocumented in Canada?
CHAMBERS: An immigrant would not become undocumented in Canada, a temporary visa holder may become undocumented in Canada if they overstay the validity date of their status document.
CHURCHILL:
COOKE:
DAVIS:
JOYAL: I am unsure, but I would say it occurs either during the immigration process or from not going through the process, for whatever the reason. Being caught in the process, or experiencing delays could result in an inability to obtain necessary documents from various levels of governments. Those who arrived on temporary visas (work or otherwise) and do not have renewed when they reapply are also at risk of becoming undocumented as they figure out the next steps.
4. What reasons prevent undocumented immigrants in Winnipeg from accessing city services?
CHAMBERS: An undocumented temporary resident in Canada does not have a valid SIN card and likely no provincial health coverage. The ability to gain additional identification allowing access to services would be very difficult if not impossible.
CHURCHILL:
COOKE:
DAVIS:
JOYAL: As mentioned above, an inability to obtain proper documentation can be a massive problem. Even something such as not having a permanent address or private phone number can prevent a person from signing up from programs or services that make adjusting to a new city easier. A second major reason is the fear of deportation or detention. Calling the police and risking deportation over an uncertain immigration status is a very real concern, and can make it easier for others take advantage of newcomers.
5. What is your view on the City of Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status?
CHAMBERS: I wouldn’t be supportive of adopting such a policy.
CHURCHILL:
COOKE:
DAVIS:
JOYAL: While I would need to see the policy in full detail, and look to cities that have already implemented the program to get their opinion on it, I can say that I would likely be supportive. Aside from ensuring everyone within the city receives equal access to services, it also makes Winnipeg a more attractive and accommodating city to those looking to come here.
St. Vital
Candidates: Brian Mayes, Baljeet Sharma
1. Immigrants make many valuable contributions to our city. Please provide some examples of these contributions.
MAYES: Labour, investment , cultural diversity, religious diversity .
SHARMA: Most of Canadians are immigrants. Every Canadian contribute in his ownway There is a long list of immigrants contributions!
2. Immigrants and migrants live in our city and rely on the same city services as everyone else. What municipal services in Winnipeg have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants?
MAYES: All services. Our community services department has a great deal of impact , such as libraries, pools , community centres. Helps foster sense of community. Also Transit for lower income immigrants
SHARMA: Accessibility to health , education , integration process etc,
3. In your understanding, how do migrants become undocumented in Canada?
MAYES: Visas can expire, eg for grad students. Also crossing border without documentation
SHARMA: Lack of awareness
4. What reasons prevent undocumented immigrants in Winnipeg from accessing city services?
MAYES: They may fear their identity will be reported to federal immigration staff with potential for deportation
SHARMA: They should proper status to begin with
5. What is your view on the City of Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status?
MAYES: Residents should be able to acces city services, however we cannot ask police or other staff to ignore laws ( eg federal) that may be in place
SHARMA: It is good idea but needs further discussion and deliberations taking all involved agencies on board.
Transcona
Candidates: Alex Allard, Basil Evan, Shane Geschiere, Steven Lipischak, Shawn Nason, Sandeep Sharma, Wally Welechenko, Raymond Ulasy
1. Immigrants make many valuable contributions to our city. Please provide some examples of these contributions.
ALLARD:
EVAN: Our city has a unique economy and immigrants are crucial to our economic success. Newcomers help reduce unemployment and strengthen our work force. They also bring diversity and fresh perspectives to our community.
GESCHIERE:
LIPISCHAK:
NASON:
SHARMA:
WELECHENKO:
ULASY:
2. Immigrants and migrants live in our city and rely on the same city services as everyone else. What municipal services in Winnipeg have a significant impact on the quality of life of immigrants and migrants?
ALLARD:
EVAN: Every city service has an impact on the quality of life for immigrants. And certain services such as Transportation, Water and Waste, and Emergency services can have a profound impact on their quality of life.
GESCHIERE:
LIPISCHAK:
NASON:
SHARMA:
WELECHENKO:
ULASY:
3. In your understanding, how do migrants become undocumented in Canada?
ALLARD:
EVAN: Migrants become undocumented when they enter Canada legally but overstay or act outside the conditions of their student, work or visitor visa.
GESCHIERE:
LIPISCHAK:
NASON:
SHARMA:
WELECHENKO:
ULASY:
4. What reasons prevent undocumented immigrants in Winnipeg from accessing city services?
ALLARD:
EVAN: Undocumented immigrants are likely afraid to access city services because they fear that they will be reported to the government and face deportation. Other reasons may include language difficulties and lack of resource awareness.
GESCHIERE:
LIPISCHAK:
NASON:
SHARMA:
WELECHENKO:
ULASY:
5. What is your view on the City of Winnipeg adopting an Access Without Fear Policy that guarantees access to city services for all residents, regardless of immigration status?
ALLARD:
EVAN: Building an inclusive society which empowers marginalized groups promotes social responsibility and respect for human dignity. I support efforts to learn the challenges and best practices associated with implementing an Access Without Fear Policy in Winnipeg.
GESCHIERE:
LIPISCHAK:
NASON:
SHARMA:
WELECHENKO:
ULASY: