in the number of refugee claims made in Canada by nationals of the Czech Republic, particularly during the last two months, and the probability that this will continue, presents Canada with a problem that it cannot ignore," Immigration Minister Lucienne Robillard said in a statement. "I recognize that the situation is complex and it is not an easy decision to make. However, action had to be taken", she said. The visa requirement takes effect on Wednesday. Czech gypsies flocked to Canada last summer hoping to win asylum after a television report in the Czech Republic showed a gypsy family living comfortably in Canada while its refugee case was being considered.