From October 16-22nd, Canada marked Canadian citizenship week, an annual tradition led by Citizenship and Immigration Canada. The week is intended to encourage Canadians to reflect on the rights, privileges and responsibilities of Canadians. It is also intended to celebrate new Canadians and the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration The Honourable Monte Solberg presided over one of several citizenship ceremonies happening across the country.

At the ceremony in Ottawa where 35 new Canadians took the oath of citizenship, Minister Solberg launched the week’s events with a short speech. “I am honoured to launch this Citizenship Week by welcoming Canada’s newest citizens. New Canadians make a significant social, economic and cultural contribution to the country, and they play a crucial role in building a better Canada.”

As Canada continues to grow, so too does the rate of new citizens coming from outside its borders. In 2005, new citizenship grants grew by 2% over the previous year. As the birth rate is declining, immigration now accounts for two thirds of Canadian population growth, with that figure expected to continue rising.