From BC FORUM

November, 2015

BC FORUM issues Statement on Syrian Refugees

November 24, 2015 - At the November 17 Board Meeting of the BC Federation of Retired Union Members, the following Statement on Syrian Refugees was adopted and will will also be circulated to the Canadian labour Congress, the Congress of Union Retirees and the BC Federation of Labour.

B.C. Federation of Retired Union Members (BC FORUM)

Statement on Syrian Refugees

BC FORUM is encouraged by the CLC’s statement in support of Syrian Refugees.

We realize this is a complex and emotional issue and that the labour movement has a long history, and more importantly an important role in future refugee settlement in Canada.

In our discussion we recognize key issues that we believe must be addressed in a unified labour position. That while the safety of Canadians is essential, we should not be distracted by racist and fear mongering propaganda.

We are encouraged that the United Nations and the Canadian Government have the appropriate checks and balances in place to ensure the safety of Canadians, while still addressing the real and urgent crisis in human suffering currently occurring in Syria.

We applaud the commitment to accept an increased number of refugees, but we believe this is only the first step in the successful integration into Canadian Society.

We recognize that funding for essential settlement services is required and expect the CLC will address this in their final statement on the Syrian Refugee crisis.

BC FORUM looks forward to working with the CLC, BC Federation of Labour and Affiliates on this issue.