The Big Five Podcast A criminal record won’t stop you from entering Canada. Plus: Five years after being toppled, Sir. John A. Macdonald’s statue is still decapitated.
Jul 2, 2025
Neil Drabkin, a former federal prosecutor and political commentator, joins Andrew Caddell, Kamouraska town councillor and linguistic policy advocate, for a lively discussion. They reveal that over 17,500 people with criminal records have been granted entry into Canada, sparking debates on immigration and public safety. They also dive into the ongoing controversy surrounding Sir John A. Macdonald's decapitated statue, still awaiting restoration five years later, raising questions about how societies reconcile with complex historical legacies.
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Criminal Record Entry Insight
- Over 17,500 foreigners with criminal records have been allowed entry into Canada in 11 years via rehabilitation.
- Serious crimes like murder or sexual assault should be scrutinized more carefully in this process.
Sexual Assault Case at Border
- Neil Drabkin shared a case of a permanent resident convicted of sexual assault in Buffalo who was not detained at the Canadian border.
- This highlighted disagreements between government officials and border officers over public safety.
Need for Transparency on Crime Stats
- Canada should publish statistics on the types of crimes committed by those cleared to enter.
- Transparency is vital for border security and public safety assurance.