Canada’s new federal government committed to assist in the refugee crisis but has revealed very little in terms of how resettlement plans will unfold and how they will be funded.

Community leaders raised concerns that local governments, as well as organizations that help immigrants and refugees integrate into the community, are already stretched thin.

“It’s pretty interesting that at this time there is no financial commitment from the federal or provincial governments,” said Regional Councillor Gael Miles.

Councillors agreed Wednesday that most of the resettlement effort should be coordinated through regional government.

Peel, representing 1.3 million inhabitants, is responsible for essential social services including health and children's services along with affordable housing.

Jeffrey responded that the federal government has only just been sworn in and was forced to act quickly on this initiative. She urged local leaders to be patient and allow the process to unfold.

“These people are refugees. They’re struggling. I realize that everybody is anxious about the financial commitment, but I don't think there is any intention to make this a burden on municipalities,” said Jeffrey.

Last Thursday (Nov. 12), Mayor Jeffrey’s Mississauga counterpart, Bonnie Crombie, called on the Region to come up with a comprehensive action plan to coordinate efforts to accommodate the influx of Syrian refugees.

Her motion, endorsed by council, directed staff to report back as soon as possible with an analysis of the Region’s capacity to meet the demand precipitated by the influx of Syrian refugees.

“The Syrian migrant crisis is a human tragedy that urgently deserves our attention and action,” Crombie said.

Staff will also report on how the intake of Syrian refugees will affect existing budgets and resources.