Sri Lankan family makes final plea to stay in Montreal ahead of deportation

Flag of the City of Montreal, Canada (Photo by Own work. – Based on [1], Public Domain)

The Lawrence family arrived five years ago as refugee claimants and have since found either jobs or academic success.

But the family members’ refugee claims were not approved and they’re scheduled to be flown back to their home country Sunday evening.

Several federal and provincial politicians as well as Amnesty International have called on the Canadian government to grant the family a reprieve.

Quebec’s immigration minister has also issued them selection certificates that could pave the way to permanent residence if they’re allowed to stay.

Their lawyer says the family still fears persecution in their home country and they’re holding out hope until the last minute.