Mulcair is using the issues around the refugees to attack Trudeau. That it might also increase resentment towards refugees is a price Mulcair appears willing for them to pay.
Mulcair is stressing that the Liberal government should be more open to accepting refugees who are single and male. So Mulcair is supporting the idea that that Canada should be taking in the refugees and that the refugees are non-threatening to Canada. This was today's lead news story concerning Mulcair and the NDP: "Tom Mulcair concerned about exclusion of some men in refugee plan":
http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/tom-mulcair-premiers-refugees-1.3331047
All that does is make people think of the risk. It doesn't increase support for the refugees and you didn't mention his additional concern over the cost. 54% of Canadians are against or worried about letting refugees into Canada. The fact that we are favoring families helps increase acceptance and women and children are the most vulnerable. Of the refugees going to Europe there is a higher percentage of young single men. That route is more difficult for families with children.
Sixty-nine percent are men, 13 percent women and 18 percent children.
The largest single group appears to be young men, open to adventure but woefully ill informed about what they are getting into. Among the dozens of them interviewed recently in Turkey and Greece, only a few spoke any languages other than their native tongue, and most knew little about the countries they hoped to make their new homes. Some were surprised to learn that beer and pork are prominent in German cuisine.
“Our only hope is in Europe,” said Mohammed Atiyya, 21, a Palestinian from Damascus who had been training as a metal worker when he was drafted into the Syrian Army.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/10/08/world/europe/migration-of-young-men-po...
Young men may be equally deserving of protection but they are also more able to flee and survive the journey. A disproportionate number make it to Europe.
69% men, 13% women, and 18% children. That's a huge disparity. It is not unfair to choose to bring in the most vulnerable refugees who are less mobile.
LOL so equality in your mind ends at what exactly? Nevermind other counrties we are talking about CANADA. Should we take in those in need or pick and choose who we THINK is in need.