News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The following statement was issued today by Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Donald Arseneault, whose responsibilities include immigration, in recognition of Canadian Citizenship Week, Oct. 10-16:

Canadian Citizenship Week is a time for all Canadians to reflect on the value and importance of our citizenship. It is a time to think about how we can contribute to this country and be active participants in daily civic life. Canadian citizenship is an enormous privilege, and is admired, valued and respected around the world.

This week is also a time to celebrate being able to share the gift of Canadian citizenship with newcomers. Over the past year, our country has warmly welcomed more than 25,000 Syrian refugees fleeing terrible circumstances to become permanent residents and, ultimately, citizens.

New Brunswick has welcomed nearly 1,500 Syrian refugees, which is the most per capita of any province.

Canadian citizenship is something that should not be taken for granted. We are privileged to share it with those who seek to embrace the Canadian way of life while we continue to work together to build a prosperous Canada for all who call it home.