Capable is one thing but willing might be something else. You need BOTH!
You are right. Not all Canadians are willing to move or work away from home and those that fall into this category should be denied EI or welfare. If there is a job in Canada in your field and you refuse to go to it you don't deserve any assistance. Conversely if you are living away from home for long periods so you aren't on EI or welfare you should receive a significant tax break.
This situation though isn't one where they weren't willing. They had already been away from home for months and were obviously willing and fully expected to be away longer.