The capital city is at war with itself over asylum seekers. But Ottawa should be able to house them all.

You can save this article by registering for free here. Or sign-in if you have an account.

The City of Ottawa’s plan for temporary housing for refugees has run into fierce opposition from some residents, damaging the capital’s reputation as a welcoming place.

The city that rolled out the welcome mat for Vietnamese and Syrian refugees fleeing violent conflict, is now at war with itself over transitional housing for asylum-seekers. The temporary homes, in tent-like structures, will offer 30- to 90-day accommodation for the newcomers before they move to better housing. But protests began immediately, with hundreds of Barrhaven residents railing against the choice of their community for one of the structures. Then Kanata and Nepean residents both took to the streets to block similar structures in their neighbourhoods.

Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.

Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading........

© Ottawa Citizen