Second, the Government will introduce technical amendments to the Strengthening Canadian Citizenship Act to allow the Government to seek earlier implementation of the citizenship revocation provisions that received Royal Assent on June 19, 2014. These provisions will enable the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration to revoke Canadian citizenship from dual citizens who are convicted of terrorism, high treason, and treason or spying offences, depending on the sentence received. This action will reinforce the high value of citizenship, and ensure that dual citizens who have been convicted of terrorist acts do not continue to benefit from Canadian citizenship.
These measures demonstrate our Government’s continuing commitment to do what is necessary, within the law, to prevent terrorists and violent extremists from carrying out vicious attacks against Canadians.
Quotes
”Our Government remains focused on ensuring the safety and security of Canadians. The crucial role that our security and intelligence service plays in keeping Canadians safe cannot be overstated. We will continue to equip the brave men and women who put their lives on the line to protect Canadians with the tools they need to address terrorism in an increasingly dangerous global environment."
– The Honourable Steven Blaney, Canada’s Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
“Citizenship is a pledge of mutual responsibility and a shared commitment to values rooted in our history. Dual citizens who are convicted of serious crimes such as terrorism and treason should not have the privilege of Canadian citizenship, which is why our Government is taking action to ensure those who are convicted of such crimes against Canada have their Canadian citizenship revoked. By seeking early implementation of the new revocation provisions under the Strengthening Canadian Citizenship Act, we are reinforcing the value of Canadian citizenship, while protecting the safety and security of all Canadians.”
– The Honourable Chris Alexander, Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister
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Contacts
Jason Tamming
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
613-991-2924
Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657
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