Canada’s Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree has said he will not intervene in the removal proceedings of a Tamil migrant who arrived in Canada by sea 16 years ago, emphasizing that the matter should be decided by the courts. However, he acknowledged that individuals sent back to Sri Lanka may face risks.
The case involves Kumar Thuraisinkam, who was among nearly 500 people who arrived on the M.V. Sun Sea in 2010. Anandasangaree noted that he had previously advocated against returning such migrants to Sri Lanka, citing concerns over safety and past incidents, but stressed that the judiciary is the appropriate authority to make the final decision.
The M.V. Sun Sea journey followed the end of the Sri Lankan civil conflict, and many of those on board sought protection in Canada. Reports indicate that a significant number of their refugee claims were accepted due to safety concerns in their home country.
Thuraisinkam has argued in court that returning to Sri Lanka would put him at serious risk, as he fears being associated with the Tamil Tigers, a group that remains banned in Canada. His lawyer also pointed to past cases where returnees reportedly faced harm.
Speaking about his experience, Thuraisinkam said he fled Sri Lanka after years of violence and described the dangerous conditions during the voyage to Canada. Although his refugee claim was denied, he continued living and working in Canada for years, but now faces removal proceedings following a recent legal issue.
He has expressed deep concern about being sent back, stating that after many years in Canada, he fears for his safety if returned to Sri Lanka.
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