News Release - Minister Finley and the Canadian 4-H Council welcomes 50 new Canadians at the Canada Museum of Science and Technology

Ottawa, March 31, 2008 — The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, today welcomed 50 new Canadians and their families at a special citizenship ceremony at the Canada Museum of Science and Technology.

“We’ve welcomed more than 15 million newcomers since Confederation, from every corner of the world—every cultural, religious and ethnic background you can imagine,” Minister Finley said. “We believe in freedom, democracy and opportunity for all.”

Minister Finley participated in a special citizenship ceremony hosted by the museum. Fifty newcomers took the oath of citizenship and 60 delegates of the 2008 National 4‑H Citizenship Seminar reaffirmed their commitment to Canada.

“I am very proud of the work done by 4‑H across the country,” said Minister Finley. “4‑H offers our young people wonderful opportunities and I think it’s great that so many 4‑H members reaffirmed their citizenship at our ceremony today.”

“In taking the oath today, you’ve decided that Canada is where you want your future to be—that Canada is where you will build a new life, new dreams, and new hope for yourselves and your families. Like the millions before you, you have come here to make a significant social, economic and cultural contribution to this country, and you will play a crucial role in building a stronger Canada,” added Minister Finley.

“It is very meaningful for the 4‑H club members who are here today to have this opportunity to take part in a citizenship ceremony and see newcomers become Canadians,” said Jim Washer, Program Manager, Canadian 4‑H Council. “I am sure that every one of us will take home a renewed sense of commitment to Canada and our communities.”  

For further information (media only), please contact:

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

Karen Shadd-Evelyn
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
(613) 952-1650