Statement from the Public Safety Minister on his call with U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security

Statement

OTTAWA, November 21, 2015 – The Honourable Ralph Goodale, Canada’s Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, made the following statement regarding his second bilateral telephone call with the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson.

“Yesterday, I had a constructive phone conversation with my U.S. counterpart about Canada’s plans to welcome 25,000 Syrian refugees.

I highlighted the humanitarian imperative Canadians feel to help these vulnerable people in serious need, and provided assurances that our timelines will not affect Canada’s ability to appropriately select and screen refugees.

I reiterated to the Secretary that safety and security, which we recognize as shared interests, remain our highest priority. Canada is integrating security throughout the process, and is committed to making sure everything related to security is done without compromise.

Secretary Johnson conveyed that he appreciated the discussion and emphasized the robust, multi-layered approach to maintaining the U.S.’ strong security posture at our shared border. We both look forward to more opportunities down the road to discuss areas of mutual interest.”

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Information:

Scott Bardsley
Office of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Scott.Bardsley@parl.gc.ca

Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657
media@ps-sp.gc.ca

Hon. Ralph Goodale Public Safety Canada Health and Safety