REPORT FROM PARLIAMENT

You’ve likely heard about some of the changes that have been made to Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration study guide. The guide Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship is more comprehensive and reflective of Canadian values than previous versions.

People come from all over the world to seek Canadian Citizenship. While Canada is a very welcoming nation, we expect individuals who want to become Canadian to have a clear understanding of the ethics, institutions, rights and responsibilities that are rooted in Canada’s history.

To develop the new study guide, Citizenship and Immigration Canada consulted with a panel of Canadians, including public figures, authors and historians. Before its release, the new guide was also reviewed by organizations involved in citizenship promotion. Discover Canada includes information on common values such as freedom, democracy, human rights, the rule of law and the equality of men and women. It highlights the contribution of ethnic and cultural communities in shaping our Canadian identity, the importance of our military, and the sacrifices made by Canada’s veterans for our country.

I’m sure you will agree that by strengthening the guide, and giving immigrants a broader perspective of their adoptive country, we are increasing the value of Canadian citizenship. For you and I, this means new citizens will have a better understanding of what it means to be a Canadian. I am proud to be part of a government that cherishes its history, takes pride in its accomplishments, anticipates the future, and ensures that any new citizen will do the same.

(Visit www.gerryritzmp.ca to download your copy of Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship.)

Hon. Gerry Ritz is the Member of Parliament for Battlefords-Lloydminster www.gerryritzmp.ca