← The Big Story
How do asylum seekers end up in provincial jails? artwork

How do asylum seekers end up in provincial jails?

The Big Story
E65029:05
Play episode

Show notes

It's not a crime to claim asylum in Canada. It's a process. But that hasn't stopped the Canadian Border Services Agency from using an agreement with several provinces to put some of these people directly into provincial jails, where they are housed with, and treated the same as, convicted criminals and those charged with serious crimes and awaiting trial. The asylum seekers describe inhumane conditions, especially for people who face no charges or accusations. Human rights agencies say it's a violation of international law. The federal government disagrees, but won't say much beyond that. How did this happen, and how do we fix it? GUEST: Brigitte Bureau, award-winning investigative reporter, CBC Radio-Canada We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

More from this show

More
  1. Weekend Listen: Will an interest rate hike derail our housing market?

    Few things are spookier than an interest rate hike. Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show "In This Economy?!" The Bank of Canada opted to hike interest rates for the firs…

    E210117:29
  2. Big Headlines: Canada-EU summit continues in Montreal as Carney pushes to become an 'associate member' again and businesses want to scrap Daylight Saving Time

    Plus: Canada is still reviewing its F-35 purchase even after receiving its first two fighter jets. Federal ministers won't say much about environment and climate change Canada aban…

    E210207:57
  3. The Nine: Did Danielle Smith get her mandate?

    Now that Question 10 has been put to rest, what about the other 9? Albertans were asked a range of questions regarding the future of the economy, immigration system, and Canada's…

    E209821:13
  4. Big Headlines: EU drops 'associate member' title for Canada as summit begins in Montreal and no Canada-U.S. trade deal coming with American midterms next week

    Plus: Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada is not yet in a position to reach a trade deal with the U.S., even with the congressional midterms just days away. Industry Minister Mé…

    E210006:53
  5. The election that left Israel in limbo

    Israelis showed up in historic numbers to have their voice heard in Tuesday's National election. It's been more than a day since polls closed, and although official results remain…

    E209725:17
  6. Big Headlines: Most Canadians believe Carney is on the right track cozying up to Europe and Ottawa wants to hear from First Nations as it reviews the Indian Act

    Plus: Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty says First Nations have offered mixed reactions to Ottawa's plan to review the Indian Act, a Ukraine-based animal rescue group s…

    E209606:26
Now Playing