Cornwall Seeks Additional Funding Amid Rising Asylum Seeker Arrivals

CORNWALL, ON – As the City of Cornwall grapples with an unprecedented influx of asylum seekers, local officials are sounding the alarm over the urgent need for additional funding from both federal and provincial governments. This plea comes in response to the escalating challenges posed by housing and providing essential services to the growing number of asylum claimants.

In recent private communications, Cornwall reached out to the federal government in November and to the provincial government in December, seeking financial assistance. Despite these efforts, there has been a lack of action, exacerbating the strain on the city’s resources as more asylum seekers continue to arrive.

Cornwall has historically played a significant role in welcoming asylum seekers, taking pride in its outsized contributions compared to its size. However, the city now finds itself in a precarious situation, urging for a fair allocation of support and financial aid to manage the situation effectively.

The Unfolding Crisis: A Closer Look

• Surge in Asylum Claimants: The city witnessed a total of 1,879 asylum claimant arrivals in 2022 and 2023, accounting for roughly 2% of Cornwall’s population. This rate, which has doubled in the last 18 months, surpasses the per capita figures of larger centers, including Toronto.
• Financial Strain: The inability to access certain funding streams available to bigger cities, combined with a higher per capita intake of asylum claimants, has led to financial impacts exceeding $1 million. This encompasses increased expenditures across various sectors, including housing, children’s services, and emergency services.
• Lost Revenue: The allocation of hotel rooms under federal contracts also results in lost Municipal Accommodation Tax revenue, further diminishing Cornwall Tourism’s capacity to promote the city and welcome visitors.

Voices from Cornwall

Mayor Justin Towndale expressed frustration over the federal government’s inaction, emphasizing the city’s role in providing a safe haven for asylum seekers and the need for equitable support. “For well over a year, Cornwall has been welcoming asylum claimants, offering them a new beginning. It’s time for the Federal government to recognize our efforts and provide the necessary assistance,” stated Mayor Towndale.

Echoing this sentiment, Mathieu Fleury, Chief Administrative Officer, highlighted the disproportionate burden shouldered by Cornwall. “Our community has welcomed more asylum claimants on a per capita basis than others, including Toronto. This has placed a significant strain on our budget and resources, and it’s time we received our fair share of support,” Fleury remarked.

Mellissa Morgan, General Manager of Human Services, pointed out the broader implications for Cornwall residents. With housing and daily living costs already a concern, the community is wary of potential tax increases to fund services primarily within the jurisdiction of other levels of government. “We aim to support newcomers, but we must also address the concerns of our residents regarding the adequacy of funding for these services,” Morgan stated.

As Cornwall continues to navigate these challenges, the call for fair and timely support from the federal and provincial governments grows louder. The city’s officials remain committed to providing for asylum seekers while advocating for the necessary resources to do so sustainably.