Quebec has extended its agreement with the federal government regarding the detention of immigrants for six months, according to information obtained by Radio Canada.

Under this agreement, Quebec agreed to detain individuals held for administrative reasons related to their immigration file in its provincial prisons.

Last year, Quebec informed the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) that it would end this controversial practice as of December 31, 2023.

Detaining immigrant detainees in correctional facilities is considered a violation of international law, according to many human rights groups and experts.

However, Quebec granted a grace period to the agency, at its request, as explained by the Quebec Ministry of Public Security in an email response to Radio Canada’s questions. The new deadline was set for June 30, 2024.

For his part, immigration lawyer Pierre Olivier Marco said he is disappointed with this decision and concerned about the safety of his clients at the Legal Aid office in Montreal where he works.

In jail, it is difficult for immigrants to receive mental health care or communicate with their lawyers and loved ones, according to Mr. Marco.

In August 2023, Nova Scotia became the first Canadian province to stop detaining immigrants on behalf of the federal government.

In the fall of this year, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia followed suit. Other provinces committed to doing the same in 2024.

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) may detain foreign nationals if it determines their identity is incorrect, or they pose a danger to the community, or they represent a threat to aviation. According to agency data, the vast majority are detained for the latter reason, meaning the agency believes they will not appear for immigration procedures, such as referral.