CBC News, February 1, 2011

Victor Morales, a street musician in Montreal, was scheduled to be removed from Canada on Feb. 8, but the federal court has granted him a stay.Victor Morales, a street musician in Montreal, was scheduled to be removed from Canada on Feb. 8, but the federal court has granted him a stay. (CBC)A Montreal busker facing deportation to his native Chile has been granted a reprieve.

Victor Morales was in federal court on Tuesday, where a judge announced a stay in the Chilean’s deportation procedures.

That means Morales can remain in Montreal for the time being, and will be able to appeal the deportation order.

Morales says he is thrilled with the decision, and is now focused on defeating the deportation order with the help of his lawyer.

The father of two is a former drug addict with a criminal record for 18 minor crimes including drunk driving, break-and-enter, theft, and possessing and selling small amounts of cocaine.

Immigration Canada says his criminal record violates the terms of his permanent resident status.

Morales came to Canada as a refugee in 1976 at the age of six.

The musician will return to federal court in the summer.

Morales and his supporters petitioned the court to grant him a reprieve, testifying that he has been clean and sober for years, is involved in his children’s lives and wants to remain in the country where he’s lived for more than three decades.