Parliament Hill and Melanie Joly

Joly: The small reception she held for them on Parliament Hill at first had all the hallmarks of a typical political meet and greet, guests nibbling on hummus and chips before Joly came and began shaking hands and posing for photos. But then she asked if they had any questions, according to Huffington Post Canada. The group instantly crowded around. Over two dozen Syrians who've arrived in Canada since the fall were in Ottawa Thursday to get a tour, thanks to their member of Parliament Melanie Joly. Heritage Minister Melanie Joly meets with Syrian refugees on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Thursday. "I do not want to sit at home,'' said Aida Farres, telling Joly she is in her 40s and used to work assisting with organ transplants in Syria, but can't find a job now. For 17-year-old Wanes Nlabandian, the issue is the requirement to learn French. Joly offered a sympathetic ear, saying Farres' challenges are common among all newcomers and the government is doing what it can. "I do not want to sit at home.'' But it is going to take time, Joly noted, given that the Liberal refugee program only began in earnest in December and it only April. "I'm hoping by next December everyone is going to have a job,'' she said. (www.immigrantscanada.com). As reported in the news.