[1] In spite of the argument of counsel for the applicant, I find that the Board clearly and unequivocally determined the applicants not to be credible, and, in the course of so doing, offered detailed reasons for its decision citing implausibilities and inconsistencies in the applicants' evidence which concerned central aspects of their claim. I am satisfied that the credibility findings were based upon the evidence and that the inferences that the panel drew were reasonable. Concerning Ms. Hernandez's testimony, I do not accept the argument that the Board ignored the evidence. Given that the witness's knowledge of the central elements of the applicants' claim was based solely on what they told her, I am satisfied that it was not unreasonable for the Board to acknowledge her testimony but not to give it any weight.
[2] In light of the lack of credibility of the applicants, I do not need to address the question of state protection.
[3] The application for judicial review is dismissed.
"Danièle Tremblay-Lamer"
JUDGE
OTTAWA, ONTARIO
April 3, 2001.
Email this Content