Conservatives call for parliamentary review of health coverage for asylum seekers

(Horizon Weekly / OTTAWA) — The Conservative Party of Canada is preparing to table a motion in the House of Commons seeking a formal parliamentary review of health benefits provided to asylum seekers through the federal Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), while proposing stricter limits on eligibility and scope.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said the initiative reflects growing public concern over the rising cost and breadth of the program. Citing figures from the Parliamentary Budget Officer, the party maintains that expenditures under the IFHP have increased markedly in recent years, a trend Conservatives argue is placing additional pressure on taxpayers and an already strained health care system.

The proposed motion would direct Ottawa to review the range of services currently offered to asylum claimants and identify options to curb overall spending. It also calls for limiting health coverage for individuals whose refugee claims have been rejected to emergency, life-saving treatment only. In addition, the motion would require the government to table an annual report to Parliament detailing program usage, with particular attention to supplementary benefits that are not routinely accessible to Canadian citizens.

The Conservatives are also linking the proposal to broader immigration enforcement measures. The motion includes a call for more robust deportation procedures for non-citizens convicted of crimes in Canada, emphasizing full completion of sentences and timely removal where warranted.

The IFHP provides temporary health coverage to asylum seekers, refugees and certain other protected persons while they await eligibility for provincial health insurance. Beyond basic medical services, the program includes supplementary benefits such as dental and vision care, prescription medications and certain mental health supports.

Supporters of the motion argue that a review would promote accountability and restore balance within the system amid rising demand. Critics, however, caution that tightening benefits could undermine Canada’s longstanding commitments to refugee protection and humanitarian obligations.

Debate on the motion is expected in the House of Commons later this week.

(Photo: The Canadian Press)