A recent report by the Parliamentary Budget Officer (PBO) has revealed that Canadian taxpayers are funding health care for failed refugees, providing them with premium benefits while governments cut services for ordinary citizens.
Costly Program for Failed Asylum Seekers
The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), originally intended as a temporary measure for refugee and asylum claimants until they qualify for provincial benefits, has ballooned in cost. According to the PBO, the program's expenses soared from $60 million annually to $822 million in 2024-25. Dental costs alone rose from $30 million to $257 million in five years. Currently, 74,000 failed asylum claimants are accessing IFHP coverage, with the average duration of coverage now four years, compared to three months for resettled refugees.
Impact on Ordinary Canadians
While the federal government pays for these benefits, provinces are cutting insured services like physiotherapy and eye care. Seniors who worked and paid taxes face income-tested caps on dental care, yet failed refugees receive similar benefits at taxpayer expense. Postmedia columnist Brian Lilley reported that the IFHP costs are approaching $1 billion.
Political Reactions
Liberal House leader Steve MacKinnon defended the program, questioning why Conservatives oppose health care for vulnerable people. However, critics argue that failed refugees should be deported, not supported with public funds. The report highlights the mismanagement of Canada's immigration system, which was once a global standard but has been strained by millions of newcomers under the previous government.
Prime Minister Mark Carney's government faces criticism for overlooking the principle of rewarding good behavior and punishing misdeeds, as the program rewards those who do not qualify to stay in Canada.
