/R E P E A T -- Media Advisory - Immigrant advocacy groups warn legitimate
refugees will be deported faster under newly proposed refugee reforms/

TORONTO, March 31 /CNW/ - On April 1, 2010 community groups working on issues of refugee protection will host a press conference to express serious concerns about the Canadian Government's proposed refugee reforms.

The groups are warning the Canadian Government that the reforms are not fair. They are concerned that the proposals are counter to Canada's humanitarian values and could put legitimate refugees at serious risk. The groups are calling on the Government to hold adequate public consultations on the proposed reforms. The groups are also calling on the Government to act responsibly to avoid creating a hostile climate for refugees in Canada.

Date: Thursday, April 1, 2010

Time: 12:00 pm (noon) - 1:00 pm

Location: 180 Dundas Street West (University & Dundas), Suite 2301

Speakers include:

Debbie Douglas, Executive Director, Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants

Avvy Go, Clinic Director, Metro Toronto Chinese and Southeast Asian Legal Clinic

Francisco Rico-Martinez, Director, FCJ Refugee Centre

Gustavo Gutierrez, refugee from Mexico and Alberto Gaona, refugee from Columbia will share their experience having gone through the current process.

For further information: Amy Casipullai, Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants at [phone] ext. 239 OR [phone] (cell); Avvy Go, Metro Toronto Chinese & Southeast Asian Legal Clinic at [phone]