The Canadian government's Liberal party has fast-tracked and passed Bill C-12, also known as the Strengthening Canada's Immigration System and Borders Act, through a third reading in the House of Commons on December 11. The bill includes various changes to border security and introduces new ineligibility rules for refugee claimants. If it receives Senate approval in February, the bill will become law.

According to Idil Atak, a professor of refugee and human rights law at Toronto Metropolitan University, the bill is "very regressive in terms of refugee protection." Atak expressed concerns that the legislation will lead to a more restrictive approach to refugee claims, potentially fueling xenophobia and the scapegoating of immigrants. "The bill's provisions will make it more difficult for refugees to access protection in Canada," Atak said. "This will have a disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations, including women, children, and LGBTQ+ individuals."

The bill's changes to border security and refugee ineligibility rules have been met with mixed reactions from stakeholders. Some argue that the measures are necessary to address security concerns and prevent abuse of the refugee system. However, others, including Atak, believe that the bill's provisions will undermine Canada's commitment to providing safe haven to those fleeing persecution and violence.

The Canadian government has maintained that the bill is necessary to strengthen the country's immigration system and ensure that it is aligned with international standards. "The bill's provisions are designed to prevent abuse of the refugee system and ensure that those who are genuinely in need of protection are able to access it," said a government spokesperson. However, critics argue that the bill's focus on security and ineligibility rules will lead to a more restrictive approach to refugee claims.

The bill's passage through the House of Commons has been swift, with members of parliament approving it in a third reading before the holiday break. The bill will now be sent to the Senate for review, where it is expected to be debated and voted on in February. If approved, the bill will become law, marking a significant shift in Canada's approach to refugee claims and border security.

In related news, the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls, Ontario, has seen an increase in traffic as people wait to cross into Canada. The bridge, which connects the United States and Canada, has been a popular crossing point for tourists and commuters alike. However, the increased traffic has also raised concerns about border wait times and the potential for delays.

The Canadian government has not commented on the potential impact of the bill on border wait times or the Rainbow Bridge. However, officials have stated that they are working to improve border security and processing times to ensure that those who are eligible for refugee protection are able to access it in a timely manner.