Major reforms to Canadian Citizenship were announced yesterday by the government. The proposed changes include making sure candidates have spent enough physical time in Canada and a language test to make sure they can participate in society.
Even tougher are the consequences for citizens who commit identity fraud and criminal acts including terrorism, and treason. For such offences citizenship could be revoked and for permanent residents, depending on the offence some will be barred for applying for citizenship.
The two pronged approach on citizenship has the Harper government making sure would-be citizens will be active in society, while make sure those who already have it are not using it for criminal activities, according to the Minister of Citizenship.
“Our government is strengthening the value of Canadian citizenship. Canadians understand that citizenship should not be simply a passport of convenience. Citizenship is a pledge of mutual responsibility and a shared commitment to values rooted in our history. I am pleased to bring forward the first comprehensive and overdue reforms of the Citizenship Act in more than a generation,” said Chris Alexander, Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister.
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“Our government expects new Canadians to take part in the democratic life, economic potential and the rich cultural traditions that are involved in becoming a citizen. We are proud to introduce changes that reinforce the value of citizenship while ensuring the integrity of the immigration system is protected,” he added.
Major reforms to Canadian Citizenship were announced yesterday by the government. The proposed changes include making sure candidates have spent enough physical time in Canada and a language test to make sure they can participate in society.
Even tougher are the consequences for citizens who commit identity fraud and criminal acts including terrorism, and treason. For such offences citizenship could be revoked and for permanent residents, depending on the offence some will be barred for applying for citizenship.
The two pronged approach on citizenship has the Harper government making sure would-be citizens will be active in society, while make sure those who already have it are not using it for criminal activities, according to the Minister of Citizenship.
“Our government is strengthening the value of Canadian citizenship. Canadians understand that citizenship should not be simply a passport of convenience. Citizenship is a pledge of mutual responsibility and a shared commitment to values rooted in our history. I am pleased to bring forward the first comprehensive and overdue reforms of the Citizenship Act in more than a generation,” said Chris Alexander, Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister.
“Our government expects new Canadians to take part in the democratic life, economic potential and the rich cultural traditions that are involved in becoming a citizen. We are proud to introduce changes that reinforce the value of citizenship while ensuring the integrity of the immigration system is protected,” he added.
