Canadian Government to Revoke Citizenship of 1,800 Immigrants
Citizenship Revoked Due to Fraudulent Claims
CMC – In the wake of what has been described as heightened fraudulent claims for asylum in Canada by Vincentians and other Caribbean nationals, the Canadian government says that it intends to revoke the citizenship of at least 1,800 immigrants who allegedly used fraudulent means to become Canadians.
Canadian Immigration Minister Jason Kenney said most of the targeted individuals were counselled by three or four “crooked immigration consultants” on how to concoct fake proof of residency in Canada.
Immigration Laws and Requirements
Under Canada’s immigration laws, a person must live in the country for three out of four years in order to become a citizen.
Investigation and Enforcement Action
“Sadly, there is an industry of what we call unscrupulous agents operating around the world who sell advice on how to take advantage of Canada to break our laws,” said Kenney in addressing the Economic Club of Toronto.
“And there are some people – thankfully, I think a small minority – who are prepared to pay big money in order to falsely obtain Canadian citizenship,” he added, stating that the vast majority of the 1,800 allegedly fraudulent citizenships were facilitated by three or four immigration consultants.
Canadian Government Stance
“What they did was hire crooked citizenship consultants to create fake proof of residency in Canada so that they can get citizenship and access to our health care and subsidized tuition rates,” continued the Canadian immigration minister.
“But, at the same time, [they] stayed overseas without contributing to the Canadian tax base.” By launching this enforcement action, Kenney said Ottawa is “sending the message that Canadian citizenship is not for sale.”
Refugee Claims and Domestic Violence in St. Vincent and the Grenadines
In a recent exposé, The Toronto Star said that the majority of Vincentians flocking to Canada, seeking refugee status, are women, who, it appears, are “fleeing domestic violence.”
The paper said that while Hungary, China, Namibia, Colombia and Mexico are among the top 10 countries from which refugee claims to Canada are made, “one of the world’s tiniest nations has started appearing on the list, a place many Canadians couldn’t find on a map: St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Canadian government is taking drastic measures to combat fraudulent claims for asylum and citizenship. The revocation of citizenship for 1,800 immigrants sends a strong message that Canadian citizenship is not for sale. The investigation and enforcement action will help to ensure that only those who qualify for citizenship through legitimate means receive it.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the basis for the revocation of citizenship?
- How many individuals are affected by this decision?
- Who is responsible for the fraudulent claims?
- What is the impact of this decision on St. Vincent and the Grenadines?
The revocation of citizenship is based on fraudulent claims and fake proof of residency in Canada.
At least 1,800 immigrants are affected by this decision.
Three or four immigration consultants are allegedly responsible for the fraudulent claims.
This decision may lead to Canada requiring visas for Vincentians, which could negatively impact the country’s economy and diplomatic relations.