On Parliament Hill

Here in the riding of Provencher we have witnessed a steady increase in the number of residents who wish to become Canadian citizens. My staff and I try to assist the high volume of people that come to our office in need of help with their application and this is one of the many ways we work to serve the community.

I have had the privilege of sitting down with people of many different backgrounds and coming from a variety of circumstances that wish to become citizens of this country. Being able to meet with them, learn more about them, and do my best to help is always a pleasure.

That is why it meant so much to me to be able to participate in a citizenship ceremony held on March 12, 2014. The event was hosted in Winnipeg at the Via Rail Station and 80 new Canadian Citizens were presented Canadian Citizenship Certificates. Judge McCrae administered the oath, while I had the honor of presenting a Canadian flag pin to our new citizens and congratulating them.

It was touching to watch so many people excited to take an oath of Canadian citizenship and to witness this important moment in their lives. The excitement was visible on each of their faces. I was able to imagine how my grandparents must have felt at their citizenship ceremony in the 1920’s.

Here in Canada we enjoy a long and rich history of welcoming those from abroad to settle and become a part of our great nation. Multiculturalism is a defining part of our national identity and Canada has benefitted greatly from immigration. Our economy continues to prosper as skilled labourers and innovative minds are introduced to the labour force. This is increasingly the case in Canada as we face the challenges that accompany an aging population. Beyond that, however, we enjoy the richness that comes from a diverse population with people of many cultures, traditions, and languages.

Canada is a wonderful place to live and I am glad I was able to welcome these people to their new home. I look forward to continuing to meet and help those here in Provencher that need assistance with their applications.