Overview
- Opposition MP Michelle Rempel Garner’s motion seeks to restrict failed asylum claimants’ federal health coverage to emergency, life‑saving care while they await removal and to require the expulsion of non‑citizens convicted of serious crimes.
- MPs were set to vote Tuesday on the Conservative motion in the House of Commons after a day of debate.
- The Parliamentary Budget Officer reports IFHP costs rose from $211 million in 2020–21 to $896 million in 2024–25, with projections reaching $1.5 billion by 2029–30 as caseloads and per‑beneficiary costs increased.
- The government counters that Bill C-12 will help quickly reject ineligible or fraudulent claims and notes a May 1 copayment of $4 per prescription and 30% for supplemental services, with coverage ending for withdrawn or ineligible claims.
- Critics, including NDP MP Jenny Kwan and refugee advocates, argue cuts would worsen outcomes and recall that similar 2012 reductions were later struck down by the Federal Court as cruel and unusual.