Stern Message Dept: In a precedent-setting ruling, the judges unanimously agreed that federal and provincial governments have the right to collect from sponsors any improperly collected social assistance, paid to new immigrants. According to immigration law, it's illegal for sponsored immigrants to get social assistance. Thus sponsors agree to support their partners for three years, even if the couple breaks up and the sponsored party ends up on social assistance, according to Calgary Herald. "The risk of a rogue relative properly lies on the sponsor, not the taxpayer," said the ruling and sponsors who renege on their financial responsibility under family-class immigration have been sent a stern message from the Supreme Court of Canada. Even if the relationship breaks down, they must bear the financial burden of family members who fail to gain economic independence. It's how the government ensures marriages are genuine and not simply for immigration purposes. The ruling reaffirms the sponsors' legal obligations for repayment, and holds them accountable for the promises they made. As
reported in the news.
@t immigration purposes, new immigrants
23.6.11