News Release - Celebrating Canada’s citizenship week

Ottawa, October 12, 2007 — The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, today launched Canada’s Citizenship Week, which runs from October 15 to 21.

Canada’s Citizenship Week is an annual event celebrating the value of citizenship, particularly with respect to the privileges and responsibilities of being a Canadian citizen. The theme for 2007 is My Citizenship. During this year’s event, hundreds of people will become Canadian citizens and hundreds more will reaffirm their commitment to Canada through citizenship ceremonies in communities across the country.

“During this special year, the 60^th anniversary of Canadian citizenship, Citizenship Week gives us an opportunity to reflect on our common values of freedom, democracy and opportunity for all,” said Minister Finley. “Canada’s New Government is committed to helping newcomers succeed. I am honoured to launch this Citizenship Week by welcoming Canada’s newest citizens.”

For more information on Canada’s Citizenship Week, including locations and dates of citizenship ceremonies open to the public, visit the Citizenship and Immigration Web site.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Tim Vail
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064

Marina Wilson
Spokesperson, Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650