Cuban who clung to landing gear to stay in Canada
A Cuban who arrived in Montreal clinging to the landing gear of an airplane has been allowed to remain in Canada.
Canada's Immigration and Refugee Board ruled there are enough grounds to allow Victor Molina to stay in Canada.
- FROM DEC. 13, 2002 - Cuban who clutched plane during flight released
On Thursday, five months after his arrival in Canada, Victor Molina received word that he'll be allowed to stay.
Immediately after his hearing, the I.R.B. ruled that Molina's life would be in danger if he were to return to Cuba, and allowed him to stay.
Molina was a member of the military in Cuba, and risks severe punishment if he were to return, according to his immigration councillor, Victor Velasquez.
- FROM DEC. 10, 2002 - Cuban defector in jail while authorities decide his fate
Velasquez says Molina faced at least 15 years in prison, and possibly the death sentence because he could be considered a deserter from the military.
Since his arrival in Montreal, Molina has found work at a car dealership and has been taking French lessons.
- FROM DEC. 9, 2002 - Refugee claimant lucky to be alive
Velasquez says the ruling is a huge relief for Molina, who is now a happy man.
He says Molina's next project is to bring his wife and young daughter to Canada.