October 2, 2020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

EDMONTON, AB – The government’s decision to allow adult children and long-term couples to reunite, after advocacy work by Conservative Members of Parliament, is the right move after months of uncertainty, says Matt Jeneroux, Member of Parliament for Edmonton Riverbend.

The border exemptions in place since March 2020 have separated committed couples and adult children who didn’t fit the government’s definition of immediate family. Jeneroux has been vocal on this issue, calling on the government to expand the definition of immediate family to allow for reunification in these circumstances.

“We’ve long been calling on the government to take a compassionate approach and resolve situations where families remain separated while still ensuring the health and safety of Canadians,” said Jeneroux.

“Our thoughts have been with all families and committed couples that have been separated during this pandemic. We know how hard this situation has been and are pleased to see some certainty for everyone.”

On August 12, Jeneroux stood alongside Dr. David Edward-Ooi Poon of the Faces of Advocacy group for a news conference in Ottawa to bring cross-party attention to Canadian families who have been negatively impacted by the border exemptions.

Starting on October 8, extended family members, including long-term partners and adult children, will be able to enter Canada and must abide by the 14-day mandatory quarantine period upon entry into Canada.

“Today’s decision by the government to allow these reunifications to happen has come after months of hard work by Dr. Poon and his group and Conservative Members of Parliament,” said Jeneroux.

“We are happy to see these families reunited in time for the holidays.”

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