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Quebec immigration minister tells mayors to watch their tone on refugees

Kathleen Weil is reminding mayors who have concerns about incoming Syrian refugees to pay attention to the tone of their comments.

Quebec City mayor said he prefers orphans and families over 'frustrated 20-year-old men'

Quebec Immigration minister Kathleen Weil is waiting for details from the federal government before announcing Quebec's part in welcoming up to 5,700 refugees. (Graham Hughes/Canadian Press)

Quebec's immigration ministeris reminding mayors who have concerns about incoming Syrian refugees to pay attention to the tone of their comments.

Kathleen Weil was reacting to comments made by Quebec City's mayor, Rgis Labeaume.

On Tuesday, he said he would prefer to welcome families and orphans because they are "less frightening to people than frustrated 20-year-old men."

Weil says it's important to remember what these refugees are fleeing.

"These are some of the most vulnerable people that we want to greet and settle here in Quebec," Weil said.

Quebec has already committed to bringing in 3,600 refugees, a number that could jump to 5,700 when the federal government eventually releases its plan.

Quebec Premier Philippe Couillardsays he's waiting to get details within days from Ottawa on its goal to bring 25,000 to Canada before the end of the year.