Some Lebanese-Canadians are pressuring the federal government to implement emergency measures that would allow Lebanese nationals' family members a less restrictive gateway to Canada, citing more 'flexible' policies that were put in place for Ukrainians escaping the war against Russia. "It was quicker, more transparent, more concise, more flexible," said Lebanese-Canadian immigration lawyer, Mariam Jammal -- comparing the Ukrainian immigration strategy to the federal government's response to the conflict in Lebanon. "We're not seeing a lot of movement on this yet, which is problematic.
" Jammal says there are communication issues between Canadian federal bodies and Lebanese nationals and their family members on the ground. "They've been trying to apply for visitor visas for immediate family, for spouses, and kids to come with them, but they're being refused. And when they contact the embassy, they're told we can help you get (airplane) seats but we can't help you get status," said Jamal in a CTV News interview Sunday.
Jammal adds the temporary evacuation measures in place for Lebanese-Canadians, permanent residents and their immediate families were too limited, given there were roughly 3,200 airline seats, compared to the estimated 40,000-75,000 Canadians who live in Lebanon. Global Affairs Canada said approximately 1,100 Canadians residents, permanent residents and their families took advantage of the evacuation options. Jammal says that the idea that Lebanese nationals and t.
