Ontario Premier Doug Ford has stated he will consider changing provincial regulations after a tribunal ruled that a man living illegally in Canada for decades is eligible for Ontario welfare benefits.The case, reported by the National Post, involves a man who arrived in Canada in 1997 on a temporary work permit that expired after four years.Despite his illegal status, the tribunal determined he is not a tourist or visitor due to his long-term residency and lack of deportation orders.

The decision highlights a legal loophole where immigration status is not a prerequisite for welfare under Ontario’s act, provided applicants do not fall under specific criteria.

Ford’s comments on social media emphasize that illegal residents should not receive the same support as other Ontarians, though he acknowledged the need for policy clarification.

The case has sparked debate about the balance between humanitarian support and immigration enforcement, with critics arguing the ruling underscores systemic gaps in the welfare system.

The Ontario Works program requires applicants to be residents, have limited assets, and demonstrate financial need, but the tribunal’s decision challenges the strict enforcement of immigration status in eligibility criteria.