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The Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) strike has disrupted not only the federal labour but also the lives of dozens of people who have applications in the immigration system. According to a Halifax-area immigration lawyer, Lee Cohen, the strike has created a significant impact on anyone involved in the immigration system. The lawyer added that it is keeping families apart, disrupting lives, and rupturing families. Although Cohen did not judge the strike’s worthiness, he knows how it affects the system.
Even before the strike, the processing system was slow, and the system was overburdened and backed up. The strike has only worsened the condition, significantly slowing down the process, and if it continues, it could bring the system to a halt. Cohen added that it could be devastating for those who need to leave Canada quickly, leaving them uncertain if they could come back.
The Zaghalil family is feeling the pressure of the strike. Mahmoud Zaghalil, who was nominated through the Nova Scotia program for permanent residency, is waiting for his approval. He, along with his wife and two sons, arrived in Canada from Jordan on work and study permits. His two daughters are still in Jordan and are unable to visit Canada without approved visitor visas. His wife’s one-year work permit and his son’s one-year study permit expired and both need to be renewed.
Mahmoud understands the pressure under which public workers work and appreciates all their hard work. However, he and his family are desperate for permanent residency approval. He said that everyone is anxious and worried about their future, and they want to settle down as soon as possible.
The strike is creating more uncertainty for people who need to travel, like the Zaghalil family. Mahmoud and his family want to travel freely to visit his daughters, but they do not know how the situation will be like, given the strike.