CORNWALL, Ontario – Cornwall and area residents are passionate, and engaged when it comes to their reaction to the potential arrival of Syrian refugees in the city.
While nothing has been officially announced, the federal government is discussing the idea of hosting hundreds of Syrians in the city, presumably at the Nav Centre, beginning next month.
The reaction from some quarters in the city has been one of compassion, and others are dead set against it.
Many want to help, but others have some specific (and legitimate) questions concerning security, health and economic ramifications of a plan that could see as many as 25,000 refugees in Canada.
We have collected a number of comments from readers, who have reached out to us by email, social media and website comments, to share their opinions.
“(People) in Cornwall have a have a hard enough time making ends meet and putting food on the table for their family….who’s going to support these refugees?” – Monique Seguin, Facebook.
“Will they be having meat with their meals? Because I’m one of the ‘working poor’ and as Nav Centre will be providing their meals, (and I hear their chefs are extraordinary) I was just wondering where I could get some of the free meat that will be used. I figure they can have the more expensive cuts ; I’ll be happy with the ground hamburger. It sure would be appreciated. I only eat meat three days per week now, and it isn’t by choice.” – Barb Tessier, Facebook.
“I’m very proud of our city right now!” – Rebecca Sorrell, Facebook.
“Welcome to our beautiful part of this awesome Country! What else can we do for you?” – Rachel A. Noon, Facebook.
“Debate about Syrian refugees has involved so much profane language that @SeawayNews has had to issue a warning about online comments.” – Dan Hayward, Twitter.
“Did someone say ‘meat’ and only three times a week and not by choice? Ummm maybe you should get rid of your cell or laptop or computer or iPad…then you would be able to buy more meat if you didn’t have to pay Telus…Bell…Rogers…Cogeco…etc. These electronics are not a necessity but a convenience.” – Carol Villeneuve, Facebook.
“If the Nav Centre and Cornwall does accept some refugees, who specifically should I contact if I want to volunteer?” – cornwallseawaynews.com comment.
“I can’t believe that this may happen, I think Canada should closes there doors for a while and let the people of Canada come first before anyone else comes here. Enough is enough.” – cornwallseawaynews.com comment.
“Not saying anything mean at all but how does Canada expect to hold all these people when it’s hard enough to find jobs and homes for us as it is and I know everyone will say that they are building a bunch of new condos and stuff but no one has that type of money coming from Syria and also a lot of Canadians are just making it by as it is I think we should focus on us first yes I know their dying and need help but if helping tares down us with money and homes how is that helping anyone.” – cornwallseawaynews.com comment.
