Being Canadian means something. Canadian citizenship is valuable and should only go to those who have a real and abiding relationship with Canada.  That is the basic idea behind Canada’s new Citizenship Act. Under the new Act, someone applying for citizenship in Canada would actually have to live in Canada for four out of six years prior to becoming a citizen.

Along with new provisions to combat citizenship fraud and more stringent language requirements, we are sending out the message that Canadian citizenship is not something to be casually acquired.

We, as Canadians, welcome newcomers to join our country and take the oath of citizenship.  We know that those men and women who are committed to Canada will have no problem with the new requirements.  After all, being Canadian isn’t about who you are or where you come from– it’s about your attachment to and participation in the True North Strong and Free.

I’m Brad Trost, your Member of Parliament in Saskatoon-Humboldt. You can reach my office in Saskatoon at 975-6133. Feel free to drop by my two offices for a visit: Saskatoon (Monday to Friday) or Humboldt (Tuesday and Wednesday). I always appreciate your feedback.