May 18th, 2006 - The Salvation Army Applauds New Measures Assisting Trafficked Persons
News Release
Friday May 12, 2006 – The Salvation Army welcomes the May 11th announcement by the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration advising that the federal government has adopted new measures effective immediately that will help people who have been victimized by human trafficking.
This action by government represents an important step in the provision for trafficked persons and addresses many concerns. The temporary resident permits (TRP), exemption from TRP fees, and access to health care and counselling are important changes to the immigration policy and the treatment of trafficked victims.
The Salvation Army operates in 111 countries worldwide, many of which are either a country of origin or destination for the trafficked person.
The Salvation Army’s anti trafficking network, along with many other organizations, had called on the federal government for initiatives to support trafficked persons. “This announcement is an excellent advancement towards ensuring that trafficked persons who have arrived in Canada are given the care and assistance they require to put their lives back together”, states Colonel Glen Shepherd, Chief Secretary for The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda. Further necessities for trafficked persons who will now receive the Temporary Resident Permits are safe shelter, medical and legal services, along with other programs specific to trafficked persons.
The Salvation Army looks forward to continuing to work with government and other agencies to ensure that trafficked persons are not further victimized but receive care and treatment with all the grace and dignity of which they were robbed.
“The seemingly weak and apparently powerless victims of the most horrific oppression and torment, at times achieve a royal splendor of character that is well beyond the imaginations and reach of their oppressors.” – Dr. Cornelius Buller on Human Dignity is Opposed to Human Trafficking
As the largest non-governmental provider of social services in Canada, The Salvation Army continues to provide professional services that are relevant to the diverse needs of vulnerable people and their communities.
