Hi... I am a Honduran, but I am also a Landed Immigrant here in Canada.

I admire the boys and what they did to try to get out of poverty. Honduras is a very rich country with great natural resources the problem with our country is the distribution of our resources.

It is a shame that we Hondurans both in a legal or non legal way try to find a better life for our families outside our country.

Keep it up boys.....arriba "cipotes" portense bien, que Dios los bendiga...siempre busquen el camino del bien.

Good job Canadians at supporting illegal immigration. This is exactly why every single one of you entering the USA need a passport. You will run into the same problem that both us and England are having.

I've visited Windsor and I see you let everybody and their families in. You do this and expect other countries to do the same! This is why Canada will never be anything on the world stage. I see how Canadians want to bury their heads and pull out of Afghanistan. You do something that earns you respect and some clout on the world stage. Then you decide it is not worth fighting Al Qaeda even though they attacked NYC and almost attacked Toronto. Good luck with that and your immigration policy.

It could have been anyone one of us born in such conditions, and wouldn't you do anything and everything you could to support your family!
"A dime a dozen"...that is rude, they are people too. Maybe some people need some empathy.

I need to say one thing that is oft repeated over and over and over again.

Illegal immigrants often say, as people have on this board, "no one will work for the poor wages these illegal immigrants are willing to work for. You should be happy that they are willing to pick fruit and work at 7-11 for poor wages."

Are you kidding me!

PERHAPS, JUST PERHAPS, if they were *NOT* willing to work for such low wages, or better yet, they were not illegally in our country, THEN these companies paying such poor wages would be forced to either (i) pay BETTER wages for citizens, or (ii) be forced to shut down.

Instead, these illegal immigrants say, "sure, I will take crappy pay and work long hours". How does this help Canadian and American culture? It doesn't! It contributes to this layer of corruption and under-the-table deals!

So, please, enough with the "illegal immigrants will take the crappy jobs that citizens won't take, so we should be happy about that". If these illegal immigrants weren't helping these crappy companies pay such poor wages, these companies would be FORCED to pay higher wages or go out of business. That's how it SHOULD be.

I understand why these people want to risk their lives to come to North America, but at the same time, I can't get lost in the emotion of their experience!

What they are doing is illegal, but apart from that, does more universal damage to the countries they enter. From decreasing legal immigration to contributing to an undercurrent of corruption, these individuals do NOT HELP Canada and the US flourish!

What I admire is the courage that it takes for an individual in poverty to say, "I am going to spend the next two to three years studying English, and learning a trade, so that I can better position myself to get into America or Canada legally." *THAT'S* courageous! That's ambitious! That's what we should admire!

But instead, we get lost in these individuals' lives and root for them to do something that tens of millions of others all want to do too!

The fact of the matter is, Mexico has a population of 108 MILLION people. And while Canada and the US thrive, Mexico is culturally messed up!

If we really want to help these hundreds of millions of people, shipping them to Canada and the US isn't the answer! The answer is to help their country figure out to how to thrive. Currently, Mexico, to be blunt, is an absolute embarrassment to North America!

So, the individuals we see in this documentary, however empathetic we are to them, we have to remember, that they are a dime a dozen. Their are THOUSANDS and THOUSANDS just like them every year trying to illegally enter Canada and the US - and obviously many of them succeed. Surely our solution can't be, "well, it's ok, look at the risk they took to get here".

My daughter in law is from El Salvador. Her mother came to Canada, legally as a single parent mother with 3 children many years ago. Her mother worked VERY hard and had to overcome many obstacles, but she did it!!!!That's my point, she did it legally, now they are all Canadian citizens, contributing to Canada and reaping the rewards of their citizenship!

Now I know of a person who came here from Mexico on a working pass. She was working at a company, had an affair with a married man, broke the family up and now living here as an illegal immigrant in hiding!! Is that the way we should support these people?

But, I believe this show was glorified so that us Canadians will feel sorry for whats going on in South America. Don't get me wrong, no person should have to live like this. However, the leaders of Canada, US and Mexico are and have been for years trying to form a North American Union, similar to the European Union. Of course this has all been done in secrecy, without the involvement of the people. This all has to do with the Security and Prosperity Partnership with all 3 nations.

On Feb. 16 there is going to be a Referendum all across Canada to Protest this issue. I suggest you find out in your city where the Referendum will be held. If you're from Edmonton, be at City Hall at 11:45 am and then we march to the Legislative grounds to protest such an agreement!

If we let all the illegal immigrants into this country, not only from South America, what kind of a country would WE have???? Canada is not obliged to save the world!
Don't you think it's time we started looking out for our own citizens first? I wonder how many of you people who say we should let them all in illegally truly look around your own town/ city and see all the homeless CANADIAN citizens. Shame on YOU for not helping LEGAL CANADIAN CITIZENS!!!!!

I have been an avid fan of the 5th estate - I really admire the excellent reports your team delivers on variety of issues and this again got reflected in "Run for your life". It was indeed shocking when I understood what really goes on behind the scenes on this illegal immigration front. Great work.

At the same time, I wanted to take this opportunity to also let your team know that at times, you get so absorbed in unwanted issues which brings down the credibility of not only the 5th estate team, but the entire CBC.

Especially, when the CBC news team covers anything to do with the conservatives, I immediately notice that it is all so tactfully worded to reflect project negatively. Also your teams handling of the Brian Mulroney and Schriber issue stinks. On top of all of this, your CBC reporter wants to feed questions to the oppositon parties. Yeah, she was reprimanded and moved to another department. But, it is very obvious that someone higher in the ranks was the key instigator. The poor reporter ended up being the sacrificial lamb I guess!!!

My sons Joshua (8 yrs)and James (10)years old anxiously awaits the next saga to part 2 of your story. They spoke about it every day and reminded me of the time and date each day. My sons are proud of the boys tremendous ability and resilience to reach the land of milk and honey. They were amazed at the boys tenacity, endurance, and determination. They especially admires Quique's leadership and ability to take risk at such a young age. The story captures their imagination and spawned a long discussion on humanitarianism. It was refreshing to discuss such a topic with my sons at such a tender age. Their ability to reason through right and wrong was simply amazing. Bravo! for Quique and his friends. America can learning a bit about what it is like to be destitute.

These young men from Honduras or Central America risk their lives in order to have a shot to American Dream or the Canadian one.

I believe our Canadian government should do more to provide access to immigration for economical refugees Who all what they're looking for is work and a fair opportunity to be part of this society.

As to they're breaking the law, it certainly reflect our government lack of reality check and compassion to those that without fault on their are unfortunate to have been born in areas where the American policy works in trial and error to stop communism.

Canadian born or not, as a human being for survival, we all would take the same risks under those circumstances.

A great documentary, I congratulate the CBC for its presentation.

This documentary portrayed these young criminals as heroes. They're not, they're illegal aliens.

The time and energy spent sneaking up the continent could have been spent applying to immigrate to Canada or the US, legally. Not to mention that are supporting a despicable industry of smuggling. I was hoping these criminals would be caught and punished for their crimes. Shame on the CBC for presenting another one-sided story.

Canada is the only developed country still trying to entice immigration, so why is the immigration process so difficult? Even trained doctors are willing to work hard as labourers if they are allowed to immigrate to Canada. (And if they can pass a Canadian medical standards test they would help with the doctor shortage.) Many of these people are humble and hard working, and they should be welcome to come here and prove that they in fact do deserve a chance to live above the poverty line. Alberta still has a labour shortage and we're not closing that gap ourselves.

And as for the illegality of crossing the border the way Quique did, isn't it obvious that the law should be changed? People don't leave their families, friends, everything they've ever known, and face all the dangers of riding the rails just for fun, THEY'RE DESPERATE. Canada should help people who want to help themselves, not bully them with bureaucracy.

Who is illegal? These men's ancestors were on this side of the ocean long before the ancestors of most "Americans" and "Canadians". These guys are not the problem, they are survivors.

The problem are the corrupt men and women that govern Central American countries, including Costa Rica. Yes, Federico, in spite of what Costa Ricans like to think, they are not better off than the rest of Central America. The problem are the Canadian and American mining companies that condone and encourage that corruption. They are destroying Honduras ecology with open pit mining. They are robbing Honduras' wealth and Hondurans' health. Honduras is not poor. Most of its citizens are because the wealth is taken by North American companies. If we left Honduras' wealth to these honest hard working Hondurans, they wouldn't be coming here to take the jobs we don't want. They come here for jobs, we go there for gold.

To John: illegals don't get benefits from any government. On the contrary, they pay taxes and are not allowed to file returns. Ask the IRS how much is America making from the backs of those people. All the men on the documentary are working. The guy in Nelson,BC was not illegal. He was claiming refugee status. He did not get anything free, not even education. He now giving back to the government through the taxes he pays now that he is working.

I was heartbroken to see all of those young men and women who have to live so poor that they would risk their lives in hopes of a better life. I thank the CBC and the Fifth Estate for showing Canadians the plight of these people who are so desperate to improve their lives. While I do not believe in opening the door to illegal immigrants, we do certainly need easier mechanisms in place to welcome temporary foreign workers by legal channels. Thanks again to the Fifth Estate for sharing this story. You really opened my eyes, and caused me to shed a few tears I must admit as I watched these desperate poor people. We are very lucky here in Canada for all that we take for granted.

What a sin it truly is to see that spending 1.2 billion dollars on border patrol is more important than using that money to better our more less fortunate brothers and sisters . As I watched the espisodes I was horrified. Horrified at the living conditions, horrifed at the pain and suffering these people go through , but most of all i was horrified to see the faces of the people that were dismembered, beaten, and killed, all just to get the US and make minimun wage.

I can hardley express my anger and sadness when I continue to see the unecessary suffering that people go through all over the world. I love my life here in Canada, although I will never forget where I came from. I have seen first hand the deperation in the eyes of mothers and fathers trying to survive and make a good life for thier families. Losing loved ones to starvation ,disease and crime. We as a country need to make more of an effort to reach out to these people, they are our family too

I know how this kids felt and the reason they needed to get to the US or Canada. I am a retired member of the Canadian Forces and was stationed in Honduras for 7 months with UNOCA (United Nations). I married a girl from there and have been trying to bring some of her siblings to Canada ever since.

It's unfortunate that our government does not recognize economic refugees who are mostly hard working people as possible immigrants to this country. Canada as a forward thinking nation needs to take a step back and look at what they think is forward looking. Are we not a nation that could provide an opportunity for a better life for these people. Perhaps some members of parliament would like to go and spend a couple of months living in their shoes (if they have them) to see what desperation is.

I guess you are welcome in this country as long as you can pay to be here. If you can't it seems we are not interested in you. How unfortuante. I am ashamed to say I'm Canadian.

My heart goes out to those poor people that risk there lives to have a better life for themselves and their family. I could not help notice the comment made by a Brampton MP who is more worried about the economy than people who have very little to eat, how selfish!

I am proud of the Americans that allows these 9 million illegal immigrants to have a chance at a better life, unlike Canada who refuses to give the 300 thousands that is here a chance, it is such a shame, Canada is the second largest country on the earth with a population of 33million, where as the US have 295million and still accomodate the illegals.I though Canada was know for its compassion, Edwin was lucky he was given a chance but many aren't spare by this Conservative gov't who is working tediously to deport people every day.If some of us consider ourselves human and have no heart nor sympathy for the poor and suffering then we need a reality check. I guess you do not know what it feels like until you are in the same situation.

God bless those that have it all and know not what it feels like to be desparately poor and to be away from your families for years, especially when a family memeber pass away and you have to choose between remaining where you are or go back to the slum just for one glance. God bless America.

My parents fled El Salvador back in '89 with myself and my 2 siblings. We legally entered Canada as political refugees, and after seeing the hardship that people go through to escape violence, poverty, etc. I'm thankful my family made it the way we did.

Immigrants, whether they're illegal or not, do the jobs that you may think you're too good to do. My parents had to work the bottom of the barrel jobs, even though they had degrees. No Canadian would ever want to do those jobs, and I admit I wouldn't ever want to either.

I love Canada and I would never consider going back to live in El Salvador. What saddens me are the ignorant people who after seeing something like this, still cannot sympathize or for a minute put themselves in the shoes of those who have struggled. Must be nice to have it so easy, to look down on people for what they feel they must do to make it in this world. They say ignorance is bliss!

I can't help but notice the black and white starkness coloring most of the comments. Either we totally pity or we totally condemn the actions of these young and desperate Hondurans.

I say it's human nature, when faced with unspeakable hardships, to persevere and survive no matter what the costs. I can neither put myself in their position and say I would do differently, nor can I applause their efforts at illegally pursuing a better quality of life.

I can, however, appreciate the fortitude and determination these young men display that, I'm sure, we'd all possess when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds. Human nature is as it is and the will to survive and endure gains precedence over all else.

I wanted to congratulate the CBC on this story. As a Central American myself, I felt awful for these poor people. I am fortunate enough to come from Costa Rica, where the situation is nothing like Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala or Nicaragua...

I guess the point being made with the stats is how much cheaper it would be to provide more comprehensive aid and potential reform, rather than patrolling. It's preventive care, check before the illness, provide training and affordable housing, not only policing. Not to say that this should be the raison-d'etre: it's a humanitarian cause.

I hope this documentary were to show in Central America as well. It would certainly raise a lot of awareness to the city elites who have been oblivious of the country's real needs. I would also hope that countries like Canada, could eventually accept "non-skilled" workers for temporary placement (3 years maybe)... it would provide them with the learning, work and savings opportunities before they go back home. By allowing only those who are educated to enter, these countries are enciting the critical brain drain in these countries.

In response to Dan Williams, not surprisingly from Calgary, your argument about increasing murder rates in Calgary in opposition to immigration amnesty is absurd. Most of the violence in Calgary is due to Alberta's irresponsible and absolute lack of a comprehensive social policy... most crime (murders and drug vending) in Calgary is committed by Canadians, Mr. Williams. Shame on yoo!

To those bent on the "law".....is this not the form of "immigration" our forefathers did when they stole the land for the aboriginals.

I know, the argument may be a bit off tangent, however, is it really? As for the argument people are waiting in line for the jobs these immigrants are taking, well, let me tell you, they are not. I work for education and training, if our so called canadians were as determined and dedicated in even getting a grade 12 education (mind you even a grade 9), we would not be in trouble with the skill shortage we are experiencing.

These people risk their lives, and actually do a favor to our economy. They work for low wages and are making this country run in some way, without eating our tax money. I have more problem with people who sit on welfare, pop out 10 kids, and contribute nothing to society.

This is a complex issue, however, humanity is just common sense.

When the first episode was aired I could not stop watching it. I had no idea that these young men were willing to endure such hardships in order to cross to the States or Canada. I have a son and I can only imagine what their families must go through it's heart breaking because they are so young. I wish only the best for them.

This is the tip of the ice burg for world illegal immigration around Europe, USA and Canada. Much
more to follow to devastate the communities and economy
if you do not stop it.

I lived in El Slavador for almost two years and saw with my own eyes entire villages of women and children sustained by their husbands who all live in the US illegally. It seriously needs to stop, the poorer countries need better policies to prosper themselves so that people do not have to leave anymore.

In El Salvador, something like 30% of their GPD is money sent from family members from "El Norte". Withouth the illegals, the economies of central american countries would collapse. The only chance at a job in Honduras is working in horrible conditions in sweat shops for barely any money; their own government is allowing this with their foreign policy. The lack of a decent education does not help either. I know, I have been there.

Quique and Edwin are finding short-term solutuions to help support their families. This is obviously very courageous of them. However, I think they should be looking at long-term solutions as well. Illegals should get together, take the little moeny they make and build community centers, schools, stores and create jobs for communities in their native countries so that their grand-children and great-grand-children will not have the same fate as them.

What will happen to Quique's family in Teguchigalpa if he gets deported tommorow? No more new video games? What a pity.

I have read several comments about both episodes of the Fifth Estate's "Run for Your Life" and a couple of things seemed to be agreed upon.

1. That poverty still exists in our world today and as sad as it is we must deal with it in our own way.

2. The barriers to immigration are great on both sides of the spectrum (locally for the illigal immigrants and in the counrtries they are escaping too).

I feel that as a country we should try to help stem the tide of illigal immigration by helping those countries such as Mexico and the ones in Central America like Hounduras by helping improve the standard of living so most will want to stay. As well the Canadian government should make it a little easier for immigrants from Central America and Mexico to at least apply for status so they can enter legally.

I know the problem of illegal immigration will never go away but if there is no oppurtunity then what other choice do these people have?

It was a great documentary to watch and the story was told in such a way that you really felt for them as they made their trek to "El Norte".

If the comments supporting the Honduran illegals reflect the opinion of the majority of Canadians, we might as well scrap our border security and put the money towards looking after the illegal immigrants. Then when I take a trip to the USA I won't have to declare to an irritating border guard my list of purchases and citizenship.As the saying goes "It doesn't get any better than that"

Emilio, would you recognize them if you see them in the street?

Just watching the show, Run for your life I was deeply touched and almost brought to tears. I was so proud of the young men that over came all the obstacles to provide a better life for their families.

How can we complain about out lives here when we see what they go through on a daily basis. How can we allow people to live in such poverty in this day and age? Animals here are treated better. The world needs to come together and help these countries, teach them how to provide for their family.

Why are were going to war? These people are living it. Why not spend some money on countries in need of real help, maybe then there would not be the need to escape and Run for their Lives.

These guys are breaking the law PERIOD. I knew of a young Honduran that came to Canada and ended up dealing drugs! The CBC makes the these guys look like Mary Poppins, its a bunch of crap, can you imagine if every person wanting to improve their lives did it illegally!

Calgary just had its 6th murder in the month of January. How much more criminal activity are we going to tolerate in Canada. Also, how the United States handles ILLEGALS going into their country is the US's business. Who made Canada the world moral authority? Wake up people! This isn't sad, its pathetic!!

I am a first generation immigrant (legal) from Africa, and I have to say no African living here can claim to have taken such a risk as the 'latinos' for the obvious reason that there's thousands of miles of sea seperation. However, I can definitely relate to and understand why they are willing to put their lives on the line for the hope of a better future for themselves and their families.

This is not a black and white issue and just taking sides against or for illegal immigration is not enough. I am not condoning illegal influx of immigrants, but this issue deserves more consideration by U.S and Canada. I am impressed with Gail's input on how she is trying to be part of the solution to a problem that has been attracting nothing but talk and more talk with our governments. I'd also like to point out that the reason Gail is moved to do more than just empathize with the young honduran is because she has been there long enough to see the poverty and the utter hoplessness that drives them to risk everything and that is something that a lot of people in North America just wouldn't get until they are exposed to it first hand in developing nations. Good job CBC for bringing this to our attention.

I was born in a third world country, I was lucky enough that my father took that same trip that these kids are attempting to do. We have lived here in Canada for over twenty years now. My siblings and I are all educated tax payers!

These kids are simply looking for a better life!! they are not looking to stand in line and wait for a check! With that said know that it's NOT ONLY IMMIGRANTS that wait in line!!! There are a lot of born Canadians who have not appreciated how lucky they are to be born in this country and have rights and the ability to go to school and work.

Yes Canada and the US send money to these countries but that money is being spent by corrupted government officials. I can assure you that none of these kids would make the this trip if they could make it work at home. However, this is not the case.

People need to look past languages, flags, borders, skin colors and laws, and see these kids for who they are fellow human beings!!!

My life would be very different if I was still living in a third country! To me Canada is my home and my country, why not give others the opportunity to love it as much?

I honestly think the journey was amazing. However, anyone who illegally obtain entry to a foriegn country should be returned and probabaly do some jail time. I personally don't care how much good they do for their fanilies in their home land.

It is wrong, hard working decent people are waiting in line for the very opportunity that the individuals in your documentary risk their lives for.

I think this is dispecable, and any supporter or person who help these people shoudl be arrested for aiding a fugitive. It doesn't matter about aid to their country or anything else. After all no one told any of them to father children they can't care for.

My Rotary Club, Bolton, recently completed a water project in conjunction with a Rotary Club in Tegucigalpa to bring clean mountain water to a Honduran village. A small start. Hopefully with more help we can assist the Hondurans to better themselves at home so that they would see less need to take this dangerous trip.

I feel that this program showed the human spirit in its truest form. The courage and strength it took for these young men to take the path they chose.

I'm gonna ask the same question that many people have asked on this topic. If you were in there situation would you have done the same thing? What if you had low education, a low poverty line and no chance at a future?

I am sympathetic for these people and yes how they went about it was "wrong." But look at how much money and time it takes just to get the papers required for immigration if you were in such dire straits would you do the same thing? I leave it to you to decide.

OK everyone. We know that Ottawa keeps tabs on every dollar they spend so we should demand they provide us with their estimate of the costs per year of each illegal immigrant that comes into our country.

Then we should all pay our fair share every year as a special accessment on our taxes and have it identified as such. Then, and only then, will we fully understand the huge expense we have decided to take upon ourselves.

The illegal immigrants shown have truly difficult lives and we shouldn't understate that. But, we should have a national debate on this issue and resolve it once and for all and not stumble forward in the dark as we have done in the past.

Tears of sadness for me. I wish I could be with my spouse, but we are stuck in an immigration process. Many times it has made us crazy and he has talked about getting in "another way" Seeing the reality was heartwrenching, I could never let him go thru that. Watching this was very hard for me, I have been to his country and I have seen the poverty. I just cried.

Congratulations on a truly remarkable and very timely view of the dangerous reality faced by 'illegal immigrants' trying to improve their lives here in 'El Norte'

When I was younger, I was working as a window washer in Montreal and a few of my co-workers were the Merchante brothers from El Salvador...

To cut the tidium of work, they would tell me their own personal tales of how they managed to escape their empovrished upbringing by travelling on foot for 100's of miles, hitching rides with strangers, taking odd jobs all in the hope of saving a couple of bucks to take the long bus ride to Montreal to meet up with their remaining brothers...

All eventually made it...

Unfortunately, in the US right now (for a myriad of unrelated reasons) the 'dangers' of illegal immigration has become the 'cause celebre' for many talk show hosts (Lou Dobbs of CNN) and political pundits alike...

They have cast the hard-working, patriotically faithfull, enthusiastic 'immigrant' as a dirty, and dangerous scourge that must be erradicated (deported or imprisoned)for our own well-being...

In my opinion, anyone who literally risks 'life and limb(s)' to come here, deserves to stay here!

Thanks for your courageous reporting on this very serious matter...

Bobby

What an eye opening documentary. For me personally, most western populations do not comprehend the desperation one feels when faced with no future in certain countries.

I am astounded by the ignorant comments posted. I do not think this documentary was sensationalizing illigal immigration, it was in fact highlighting the reasons as to WHY the issue exists in the first place (unstable states, poverty, unfair world distribution of wealth etc)

I guess one has to actually be partially intelligent to grasp the deeper meaning behind the documentary.

As humans, we have a duty to comprehend one another and as a nation of wealth, we are responsible to be conscious of the realities lived by people around the world and not be selfish in our own quest to retain the wealth and luxury amongst ourselves.

Shame on the CBC and The Fifth Estate for . While I do find it sad the conditions these people have to endure, we as Canadians have to be realistic.

In 1998 there were 1.2 billion people living in extreme poverty (less than one dollar a day). If Canada opens the 'pipeline' and allows free immigration to everyone in the world who is poor or wants a better life at the expense of taxpaying Canadians it won't be long before our way of life is destroyed.

Go ahead and flame me, but ask yourself these questions.

Would you want ghettos or housing projects in 'your backyard'?

Most people are fine with them, as long as they are 'away' from where they live and the crime is in the inner city, not in their nice neighborhoods with their nice warm homes and SUV's.

Would you be willing to increase your tax share substantially to help cover the burden they will eventually put on our healthcare and educational systems?

I'm sure the bleeding hearts will say yes, until they start looking at their paystubs or have to wait in line for hours in a crowded hospital while 'their child' is in dire need of attention or 'their child's' education is put at risk.

When was the last time you offered assistance to impoverished Canadians in need of assistance?

I'm amazed at how people can watch a show like this and see impoverished people in 3rd world countries and want to 'fix' all their problems with Canadian tax dollars. We have people living in poverty in Canada, homeless people, drug addicts, prostitutes, all sorts of destitute people. When was the last time you offered to buy a street person a bowl of soup? When was the last time you volunteered you time at a Homeless shelter? When was the last time you offered assistance to a disabled street person who needed help crossing the street?

When was the last time you invited a destitute person into your home to warm up with a cup of espresso, sitting by the fireplace feeling all warm and fuzzy inside watching this ONE-SIDED GARBAGE offered up by the Fith Estate?

Be realistic people. We are a country
of 32 million people. We can't solve all the worlds problems despite what this one-sided story on the Fifth would have you believe. We have poverty in our own country. Check out the following CBC Link:

http://www.cbc.ca/news/background/economy/poverty-line.html

And by all means research world and Canadian poverty. and immigration problems in the U.S. and

And if you still don't feel right and you still want to do something, go volunteer, cash in your RRSP's or sell your vacation homes and send the money to Honduras. OR better yet, go buy a nice vacation home in Honduras. (maybe you could let some nice Honduran family stay in it while you are away the other 50 weeks a year, or make it a drug rehab center, or soup kitchen.)

Wake up people.

Humbling!
as far as them being a burden on us, well,
I've heard comments many times over the years like:
"I'm not getting out of bed for less than $14/hour",
But I've never heard it said with a spanish accent, or ANY accent for that matter... interesting.

After having a glimmer of what these people face, I think I may whine a little less about my lot in life.

What a compelling documentary! I'm a Canadian transplant (also a first generation immigrant), now living in the US. I'm also a lawyer, and I've long thought about entering the field of immigration law. After watching this show, I feel even more inspired. I hope we are able to elect a more compassionate and understanding president this year. The idea of building a wall between the US and Mexico is absurd. And the idea that this influx of foreigners means good jobs will be taken away from Americans or Canadians is another absurdity.

I watched this program when it first aired last week and watched it again when it aired this evening. I found it heartbreaking and also unfathomable how, after a journey such as theirs, our government would deport them. Edwin has been eager to learn english and fit in to the Canadian way of life.

I don't know this for sure, but I doubt very much we would ever see him or anyone of those travellers lounging around on pogie or standing at the welfare office waiting for their cheque. We should let them in, educate them, employ them and then, we should tax them just like everyone else.

There are only 32.6 million of us rattling around up here in this big country and we have plenty of room, at least in the prairies and the west for a lot more people. On the other hand, Canada and the U.S. should do their very best to make life better for them in their own country. We're doing our best for the people of Afghanistan while letting this tragedy take place on our own continent.

It was heart breaking to watch this. And to see someone all most graduate and then be deported! It would be humbling to be able to help, by bring someone here for their education so they could have the choice to become someone amazing and possibly help their own country.

I cannot believe how arrogant and ignorant some of these comments have been. I always knew that us Canadians can be very self-centered and self righteous,as well, I know that there are those few that have more compation then that.

Come on People do you not get it, OUR country was built on diversity, we would not be who we are without immigrants. Although most of us are from european countries, not so much the western hemisphere. And with that said, our parents, grandparents,and so forth, also came here for a better life for their families, traveling in the belly of ships and getting here however they could. And might I add, not always legally.

We are known world wide for being kind, giving, well educated people. We can only be greater as a country to help out our fellow human beings. People commented on jobs being taken and health care being jeoporgized. Open your eyes..alot of canadians don't want the jobs available to them and as a result, alot of canadians are on some sort of assistance, know you can speak of the people taken advantage of our countries benefits...its the ones that live here that think they somehow deserve to not work and live like everyone owes them.

These people who would risk their lives and are willing to fight for a better life, and work 5 or 6 jobs to get ahead, these are the ones that deserve our help...not the ones in our own country who think they are owed this privilege.
I've traveled throughtout the United States and we still are the better country in comparison, the States are pretty much just as bad off as South America.

We are extremely blessed to live here in Canada, and if there was a solution to the grave injustice that is happening in South America, I would be the first to help...would you?

This is a great effort on the part of cbc team to bring such a harsh reality to the surface.I was shocked to see all that. I was surprised how ur cameramen did all that. Ultimately it shows inequalities which the modern capitalist global world is bringing for poor countries and for poor people. People from developing world are always eager to come to these countries by wharever means.
Thanks for making such a great program

John:

So few problems in life have simple answers. Yes, it's easier and far more comfortable to simply write off the suffering of others by demonizing them. But it's cowardly. Should illegal immigration be tolerated? No. Should we feel nothing for those who attempt illegal immigration? Also no.

These two incompatible realities coexist, and that's uncomfortable. And if all that we are called on to do is tolerate the discomfort of knowing we're lucky enough to have been born on the right side of that gap, then it's incumbent upon us to be aware of, and feel something for the suffering of those on the other side of it.

The fact is that if you or I, as honorable and respectable men, lived in the hopeless poverty these people come from, we too would risk life and limb for some kind of future for them.

Am I saying that illegal immigrants should be welcomed in my country or yours? No. What I'm saying is that if we are going to be moral human beings, then we don't take the coward's way of simply getting angry about the rule-breaking. It's more complex than that.

It just is what it is. Be a man, learn about it, feel it, acknowledge it, and make your decision about where you stand. If your position is that illegal immigration must not be tolerated, then I have no argument with that. But know what it costs you: a little bit of your humanity. That's what it costs me, too.

it is extreamly sad that the goverments calls this people terrorist...when they well know that they are the terrorist making all of the citiezens beleive only what they are letting us know. If only our goverments were not so currupt no one would have to leave their countries and their families. I ask of everyone to please go to this web site.wwww.zeistmovie.com. thanks.

On my last trip to Honduras, March 2007, to build a school in an isolated mountain community, I met a young man with great potential but no future. I offered to sponsor him to Canada, to study English, complete a few college courses and ultimately return to Honduras to work in rural reconstruction. This sounded rather easy, except that he had no address, no telephone, no parents, and no income outside of being a "machete". To accomplish the task he and I are totally reliant on assistance of others to coordinate the process. I have hired a lawyer in Guatemala to assist in the process.

Barriers that prevent him or any other Honduran to a better life include: limited education - grade 6 or substantially less; lack of legal records, difficulty in obtaining a birth certificate and Honduras passport, costs to travel to Guatemala City to the Canadian Embassy to apply for study permit and temporary resident visa, cost of visa and permits, accommodations and food in Guatemala City while making applications, US transit visas, legal representation, demonstration of adequate funds to cover expenses in Canada - international student fees for college tuition, OHIP/health coverage, lodging and food while in Canada, airflights, costs of travel while in Canada...).

For the average person (in this specific area, family income is less than $400.00 per year), these barriers are unsurmountable - leaving no option but to accept poverty, or to attempt illegal immigration with all the risks.

It will be one year since I started the process on this young man's behalf, and hopefully he will be able to return with me March 2008 when I return from another school build.

If successful by March 2008, this young man's challenges will be just beginning - he will have to deal with the loss of all familiarities. He will have to learn a new language, live in a new culture with very different foods and customs, cope with different climates and weather, and deal with homesickness - to name just a few.

Unless you live and work among them, we in "el norde" have no way to even imagine how desperate are the conditions that these people live in parts of Central America - to raise families with no hope of betterment, or future. I do not condone illegal immigration. However, I admire the bravery, courage and the indomitable spirit that drives these people to risk life and limb for a dream. (not unlike our own forefathers who immigrated to Canada?)

I am a Canadian born to immigrants. My parents in so many ways were economic migrants, just as were many immigrants from Europe in the 1950's through the 1970's.
They came by boat to Halifax and then off to Montreal where they settled in the Greek community, in 1958. They were legal immigrants, but, they were the same as these people from Central and South America, by way that, they were looking for a better life for themselves not so much but for themselves but for the following generation and the family members left in the old country. My father and my mother did not have to risk their limbs or life to get here. They were welcomed with open arms.

Why is it, that as North Americans we determine how these people in Central and South America should risk their lifes to get to the USA or Canada? Do you know there is a Canadian Consular office in Panama City, yet it functions only for business inquiries. If you wish to immigrate or travel to Canada you must go through Guatemala. Panamanians have to travel outside their country to get in the queue.

Ask yourself how many Embassies or Consular offices are in the USA or Europe and then how many are in Central and South America. When you put forth the arguement that these people should try to come here legally, figure out that the inital fees are more than 5 years work in their country.

That when they apply for a tourist visa they must show a substantial amount of money in the bank, a letter from an employer that they are going on a holiday and have a job to come back to, an invitation letter from a Canadian just to visit here.
That is for a visit only.

To immigrate it cost much, much more and more time.
So next time you think you should spout off how jobs are being taken away from North Americans ask yourself would you do that if you were desperate to give a better life to your family or yourself.

If so many of us agree that throwing these young people in jail and sending them back to their misery is wrong, why can't we do anything about it? Maybe we need another William Wilberforce who helped to abolish the evil of slavery. Any other ideas? Why should we allow those who are greedy and unwilling to share our land and wealth, rule this country?

it makes me ill to read the ignorant comments from some posters who know nothing about the seeds of these kid's poverty.i believe they should delve into the background of this story before condemning the truly helpless. if they want the roots, look to the south, you will find the usual answer. iam disgusted!

I can't believe we are in the 21st' century and the poverty still rages on.it's heartbreaking to watch kids who should be in school, riding to an uncertain future. bless those brave boys and their families who wait in uncertainty. i hope their faith gets them safely through to a happy ending for all.

I have to say that I am very sensible to help the third countries, but to see the road that some of them have choosen to save not only themselve, but their family, Was a wake up call!!! I don't think that CBC was romancing the illigale immigrants, but in between the lines, we could read that something need to be done for those people. It is a desesperated call for HELP, an Urgency!

I may talk trough my hat... but even if Canada and the US is sending million of dollars to those countries, and knowing about all the political and military corruption, I'm asking myself "What happen to the "cota" of wheat from Central Canada, the milk from Quebec, or the oranges from Florida??? If money dosen't help them for now, food would surely be a start, no??? Why trowing all this food (over cota)in the Atlantic? I was amaze to see in Mexico, the people tending food for them on the train, WOW! I feel that I need to do something too.If their belly were full, the country would get better, then they would have not much to envy us!

I don't support illigale immigrants, but few years ago, during the biker war in Quebec, the province made a law about criminal landing in the province... and turn them around! Well they landed in Toronto and are now walking our streets!!! Go figure... Just deporte that poor kid from Nelson, who have proven himself more worthy then some of us.

Let the good guys in 'cause we are in need of taxi driver, I can count on my fingers how many Canadian drove me around the city in the past 8 years. I don't beleive that immigrants benefite from those privileges (welfare) but spoiled Canadian who are ABOVE pizza delivery!

Well like I say I don't know much about immigration, but I think that mom was right went she was saying "Eat what is on your plate and thank God before bed that you were born in Canada"

For the rest about the whole subject...
I agree with the President of Australia, by OUR rules.

If you want to let the illegals in then why don't you take a trip down to Phoenix and see what the illegals have done down there? Your eyes will finally be opened to what happens when people decide to ignore the law. The schools are over run, hospitals are shut down, crime is rampant, home invasions are through the roof, and the illegals have taken over all of the skilled trades from contractors. "For cash" Which means they do not pay taxes. If its o.k to break the law on this what about other laws? How about not paying our taxes? I wonder what would happen then?

In response to:
John | USA | Posted January 24, 2008 01:38 PM

I suggest you look into how much your country really does offer in foreign aid, to countries in Central America and elsewhere. You will find you're quite disillusioned.

You're right, living in an affluent country is a privilege. Did you do anything to earn this? Oh right, you were LUCKY enough to be born in the US. Put yourself in the shoes of someone who was not so lucky.

I feel that there are so many of them running away from thier own country because of extreme poverty. If it is true taht there are millions. Then I would like to suggest something.

We need to take care of each other and work togethwe as one to survive. Instead of running away from your own country,we can all join forces as one people to help each other live in a better world. easier said then done. Yes,I know! Keep in mind that we can do it!

Instead of hating each other, we need to love each other and work together to transform the world in a loving environment. They don't need to run away and risk their lives. They can transform their own country into a prosperiuos country.

It can be done with hope and a dream of making it all happen. Work very hard and work as a team. All of us can do it to create a bright future for them and they need to help each other. Pray and think about it.

I've been interested in illegal immigration for years. I feel so bad for the people who are forced to live this way, their lives are so hard compared to ours here in Canada.

My own family came from a country where living was very hard. All you could buy in stores were vinegar. My parents eventually immigrated to Canada in the 1990's. I was very young when we immigrated, and my parents tell me everyday about how life is in those kind of countries. It's very hard to support their families on the salary they make. The money they make in a week is equal to the money canadians can make in an hour.

It's very unfortunate, and I'm sure everybody would like to help them, but we can't help everyone because our own country wouldn't profit with so many people coming in at one time. It would change our country very much.

For all those who think it is THAT EASY to LEGALLY MIGRATE to CANADA OR USA.

www.cic.gc.ca - to verify any of the following!

FACT ONE
It COSTS upfront NON REFUNDABLE, just to FILE - REPEAT FILE the application $1700.00 CANADIAN DOLLARS!!!
(This does NOT include the cost of supporting documents, medicals etc.)

FACT TWO
The process takes at least 18 months if you are withing CANADA from the date they appoint an immigration officer your file, NOT from the date you SEND it in!!

FACT THREE
If you were to do this from outside CANADA it takes at least 3, REPEAT THREE YEARS!!! (can you wait that time when you are desperate for money, food and a roof over your head?)

FACT FOUR
I am a landed immigrant, it took the government 18 months from start to finish plus I was out of pocket $2,500.00 CDN at the end of it all. I have a girlfriend who is also a landed immigrant her she did her papers in Canada and she and her daughters waited TWO years for their papers.

Now, for all of you who think its so easy, sitting in the luxury of the security the Canada and US provide you, your roofs over your heads, your job security, your available health care, and lack of corruption in government and police, if you had all these TAKEN for granted perks, and yes they are PERKS (because not EVERYONE in the world has this luxury), taken away from you and you had to find a way and means to put food on your table what would you do? What would desperation make you do for your loved ones?

Side note --- Here in Alberta we have a severe labour shortage, SEVERE, it has effected EVERY industry! No one is TAKING away jobs. So I honestly say bring these hard working family oriented lads and ladies over. Who would NOT complain and take for granted what the government here freely provides its countrymen!

I see it everywhere here, how much Canadians and Americans take for granted what they are given in their respective countries. Stable governing, almost no corruption, roofs over their heads, security. Safety! Health care. The poor in both countries can never be compared to what majority of the people go through in South America. It is so sad to see how many of the commenters are just so disillusioned to think things are that easy but that in itself proves my point you take things for granted thinking everyone has the same equal opportunities as you do when in actuality they don't!

It really broke my heart to see the suffering of these guys when trying to cross the borders... Its poverty and corruption they want to escape from.

and if they cross illegaly the borders its like James said , most of them can't afford such expensive process. Its more than a hundred dollars ( and the value of the dollar could be up to 10 more times the dollar) just to show up at the embassy and request for a visa , and you don't even know if it'll be neglected or aproved. Considering that some latin americans prefer doing the hard way, and most of them don't even know whats coming up when crossing a border, they dont know that they are going to face robbery , rapers, killer or inmigration police.

I also know that not all people that goes to north are good , but we can't judge all of them for one.

I have the good fortune to have lived in South and Central America. Not only did I learn another language and experience another culture but daily, I was able to see how incredibly lucky Canadians are.

I grew up in relative poverty in Toronto. There was no extra money for the family of an independent gravel truck driver. I never once thought that I could not follow all my dreams in Canada.

But to grow up poor in Central and South America means a poor diet, no health care, extremely limited education opportunities and constant unrest created by either nature disasters or political strife.

To apply for legal entry to Canada, hopefuls would have to first, travel huge distances - often to another country (there are not Canadian Embassies in all Latin American countries). Once there, they would have to pay someone to help them through the process. (I naively thought that something like that would never happen at any Canadian office).

I'll stop here - there are many more roadblocks and only the wealthy can afford even the first two steps of immigration- get to the office and get the info. But Latin Americans are resourceful and will help each other. They help each other find other, far more achieveable alternatives. They are also constantly bombarded with American advertising and comparisons and just beginning to value their own past and cultures.

So, if El Norte is were the opportunities and all the advertised goods are and the dangers they encounter taking the train route are far more possible and much less expensive than the legal routes, what can we expect? Nelson has a history of acceptance - draft doggers etc.. Let's learn from Nelson BC and open our arms to these young men and women when they make it here. Surely they must be somehow blessed souls to survive.

In addition, we need to look at immigration from Central and South America. It needs to be cleaned up, clarified and expanded. We need hardworking, family oriented potential new Canadians.

I found this program fascinating, albeit heartbreaking.
It saddens me to think of what Central Americans are willing to risk and endure for a chance to access the same resources we take for granted every day.

I cannot believe that some viewers have the nerve to complain about how illegal immigrants overcrowd their hospitals and increase their taxes after having seen how Central Americans have to live. Personally, I would gladly pay higher taxes if that meant I could help those less fortunate than myself.

One viewer naively suggests that "there is such a thing as legal immigration"; if he had really understood the message of the program he would realize that when you live in that kind of desperation and poverty, legal immigration is not a feasible option.

Those of you who are outraged because you feel you are being negatively impacted by "illegals", musn't forget that those immigrating from Central America are trying to better an impoverished life sustained by policies implemented by YOUR GOVERNMENT!

Any one should be aloud to come to Canada the europeans did, so why can't anyone else??? the heck with the government there all messed up anywayz...

Glo from SK

"take our jobs"

What?

Are you and your family willing to pick fruit and vegetables for less than a living wage, or work at 7-11 for minimum wage or do all the "jobs" that most Canadians are unwilling to do?

These people look to El Norte as a way to pull themselves out of poverty and you worry that they are taking our jobs and crowding our hospitals.

Give me a break. I've been to these"third world" countries and let me tell you, most of the subjects portrayed in this documentary are hardworking, non criminals, willing to do whatever it takes to better themselves. I have hardworking friends in Mexico that want to come here but can't afford the process.

It's unfortunate that there are so many xenophobes here in Canada and the States. Get over it.

We should find a way to allow these people to immigrate to our country.

In the 50's when my Father came to Canada, he required a sponsor who would be responsible for him for 10 years. No welfare, refugee status or any other of the perks given to some recent immigrants. If there are families here that will truly sponsor an immigrant from another country without placin the burden on Canadian taxpayers , then let them do it, legally.

You can sit here and whine about how it's America's fault that these Latin America countries are in the state they're in all you want.

First of all, it's not true. The US sends BILLIONS of dollars in foreign aid to almost every Central American country. Secondly, if their life is harsh in their homeland and they don't like it and want to find a better life, do it legally. We're happy to have them here LEGALLY.

It's this mindset that these people are entitled to come to America and Canada and just get taken care of that's so sickening. These people don't have a right to come to our countries. It's a privilege. If they want to come here, let them do it legally. Do you obvious socialists really enjoy seeing your tax money go to fund illegals? Like I said, if you do, we've got 12 million of them down here who we'd be happy to send your way.

It is infuriating to read a couple of the comments posted about this documentary. It has to come form someone from the south, no remorse what so ever. These idividuals do not know the truth or the root of the cause for immigrants like Quique as to why they look for a better life.

The exploitation of natural resources as well as to humans in countries such as Honduras, Nicaragua, and Guatemala by American companies is the cause for the struggles of those nations. As well as to the corrupted governments in place that are either back up by the US or leftist such as Venezuela.

The doctrine adopted by the US to conquer and exploit is the real cause for many of the social and economic problems that countries from many part of the world suffer.

I see the documentry as a protrayal of human will, a mean to show up to what extreme a human can go to achieve its dream. I see it as a human courage and knowing that there are risks ahead, still continue in search of that dream.

I don't view it as a glorifications or romantizations as it was commented. THIS IS NOTHING THAN NO MORE THAN A HUMAN COURAGE IN SEARCH OF A BETTER LIFE.

Yes that was a "romanticized" version of illegal immigrants looking to have better paying jobs. You say yes they can just apply to work or live or move to Canada or the US the "proper" way and do it from their home country.

With what money? They have none hence why they would risk their lives to try to make a better future for the ones they love. Do you not think if someone was given the choice to live or to die they would rather live?

If someone came up to Quiqui and gave him the option of NOT risking his life and limbs and said yes apply to move to Canada to work legally all the expenses involved in the application process was only to cost the EXACT same as it would cost him to cross illegally do you not think for ONCE that he would jump at that opportunity?

I am a landed immigrant myself and let me tell you this. It does not come cheap to apply for landed immigrant status. You need AT LEAST $2,500.00 CANADIAN to pay for the chance to submit your application including all expenses for all proper documentation to be enclosed, and this does not include lawyer fees incase you require so.

Do you think this young lad just happen to have that in his back pocket? Do you think that these 400,000 illegals would grab that opportunity, the women especially who would risk getting raped, gang raped would not jump to take that opportunity if it were to present itself to them?

You "anti-illegals" sit there in your comfortable homes, with your taken for granted sense of security and protection and mock these people. Yes there are the drawbacks of illegals but there are drawbacks for the LEGALS too. The point its this, whether they are legally or illegally in this country you cannot put them all under one umbrella. Just like every person is an individual.

I ask you this, put yourselves in their shoes, pretend for once you did not have the luxury of living in Canada where the government gives you such a sense of security and protection. What would you do? Would you be desperate enough to try ANYTHING to better your future? What would you do for your family if you were able to make the choice?

Oh and one more thing we honestly HONESTLY take our health care for granted up here! Especially the ones the CANADIANS who REFUSE to pay for it but yet RUN to emergency at Mach 10 for everything! That is something else to keep in mind when you complain about illegals crowding our hospitals!!!!!!!!

Our custom officers at the Windsor/Detroit border should see this documentary. I've overheard remarks by them like, " I wish I could claim refugee status and collect welfare," as refugee claimants sit and wait to file their claim not understanding the rude and inhumane comments. Are they oblivious, in denial or completely apathetic?

Quique's hardship is the result of global economic inequalities. The "developed world" must do more to ensure an equal distribution of wealth and that our global economic policies are just and respect the sovereignty and well being of other nations. We ALL deserve the same rights including the right to live a decent life.

This special made me sick. The way in which these ILLEGALS are portrayed is nothing short of glorification. There are times throughout the show that it's obvious the producers intend to make the law enforcement officials in Canada, the US, and Mexico to appear as the bad guys, while these Hondurans who have blatant disregard for immigration laws are made to appear the heroes.

The young man who "found his way to Nelson, BC" was living in Canada illegally and reaping the benefits of a quality public school education for which taxpayers paid. Neither he nor his family contributed one cent to the Canadian government. He basically stole an education from the Canadian government.

Yet this special didn't even make a halfhearted attempt to interview or show anyone who opposes illegal immigration. The fact that he was tracked down my Immigration and ordered to Vancouver was given about a two second slice of the hour. Instead of providing equal time to the legal aspect of him living in Canada for years, illegally, the show chose to focus on how well liked he was in Nelson and how hard it would be to say goodbye.

There was never any mention of the impact of illegal immigration on the Canadian or American education, health, penal, or economic systems. A recent report concluded that illegals cost Arizonans over $2B per year in suppressed wages. That's $2 BILLION.

Let's not forget that there is such as thing as LEGAL immigration. These lawbreakers from Honduras whose travels were chronicled had every opportunity to emigrate to the US or Canada legally. But they snubbed their noses at the law. What kind of message does this send to the tens of thousands of people who are waiting their turn in line to come to the US and Canada LEGALLY? Why should they wait? They'd be better off just doing it illegally.

It's obvious to me that the producers of this piece had an agenda--to create pathos for these ILLEGALS. While their goals may be noble (who wouldn't want to see their families do better in their home country), the methods to achieve that goal are nothing less than despicable.

I wonder if the producers spent any time in Arizona or Southern California and witnessed the devastation that results from illegal immigration. Did they see the overcrowded ER's, the struggling school systems, the areas through which people cannot even drive because of gangs manned by illegals? Did they see the stories about the illegal who drove drunk and killed American citizens in Virginia Beach? Did they know of the serial rapist in Arizona who was deported several times, yet returned, only to commit more rapes? Did they examine the billions and billions of dollars that the state governments spend to educate, incarcerate, and provide healthcare to the illegals?

If this is the way Canadians feel about illegals, then please, come here and take all 12 million of ours. Don't forget, you're taking the hard workers along with the criminals. You're taking a financial burden that I don't think your taxpayers would be too thrilled with.

I was absolutely infuriated as I watched this program. How dare the Fifth Estate romanticize illegal immigration! The whole show is geared towards making the public feel sympathy for these men who are breaking the law. Its like the Fifth Estate is saying, 'Come to Canada! We want you here! We don't care if you crowd our hospitals, take our jobs and don't pay taxes.

I have no problem with immigration. Legal immigration, not illegal immigration! Why should anyone come into our country and do what has been done to the U.S. All hospitals along the U.S border have had to be closed due to the illegal immigrants who having no health care cannot be turned away. Also, what about the schools who are over run with illegal immigrants? Is that were we want our tax dollars to be spent in Canada? On people who do not pay taxes? Aren't we paying enough taxes as it is?

It is wonderful to see that for some of these lads there is a happy ending- if a happy ending means being able to live in work and Canada for a few people. It would be so much better if we could make a happy ending for a lot more people by promoting conditions which would allow them to stay home and work for a living wage.

Wouldn't it be wonderful if we, as Canadians, could encourage our government, and the one directly to the south of us, to encourage proper wages for those working to supply us with bananas, coffee and other things we buy from the Central American countries so that workers there would not have to take such desperate measures to find paying jobs to support themselves and their families. Of course, this would mean we would have to pay more for these things. We would also have to be satisfied with lower profits if we own the companies or own shares in the companies that employ the workers.

And then there is the whole question of the part North Americans (especially our neighbours to the south) have played in the politics of the countries of Central America to ensure that governments are in place that can be controlled by our own business interests- to the detriment of the folks that live in the countries such as Nicaragua and Honduras.

As a result of such North American "meddling", the ordinary folks have been caught up in civil wars that have cost them the lives of their friends and families as well as keeping those who do manage to survive in poverty, while allowing many business folks to do very well financially, and allowing us to have relatively cheap fruit. I give you the Sandanista/Contra affair and the United Fruit company as a well known example.

Now, would you like me to tell you what I really think? V.

I very much enjoyed tonights show.. What a terrible existance that drives these young people from a country that offers their families nothing. It's too bad the Mexican authorities didn't spend as much time apprehending the gangs that prey on these people, but that might be too dangerous. I look forward to the conclusion next week.

According to the presenter of "Run For Your Life", these men were aware that their faces would be shown. Fair enough, but what was the point of the presenter saying that their surnames are not being disclosed as a means of protecting their identities? Kind of redundant isn't it now that every law enforcement person in Canada now knows what they look like?

Except that the producer can now hold him/herself blameless if they get caught by the Canadian authorities and are sent back? It never ceases to amaze me how quick Canadians are to pat themselves on the back for supposedly 'doing the right thing' or being politically correct. Is this Canada's version of responsible journalism?