Advanced Education, Skills and Labour
October 11, 2016

Celebrating and Encouraging Cultural Diversity

Provincial Government Shines a Light on Canadian Citizenship Week

The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour, is reminding residents that October 10 to 16 is Canadian Citizenship Week, a time to reflect on the nature of our citizenship and the underlying shared values of freedom, equality and respect which help define it.

"Newcomers not only enrich the social fabric of Canada, they bring economic advantages, generate innovation, attract industries and workers, and spur economic growth throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. This is why our government recently consulted with people to develop an updated, modernized immigration strategy, one which aims to attract and retain more immigrants to address our economic, labour market and demographic needs."
- The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour

During Canadian Citizenship Week, red and white lights will light Confederation Building in St. John's. All Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are encouraged to join in the celebration and display lights outside their homes as a symbol of support for diversity in Newfoundland and Labrador.

"Canadian citizenship is respected, valued and admired throughout the world. There has been no better time for permanent residents to consider the option of citizenship and the benefits of being a Canadian citizen. I am pleased to celebrate this week and encourage all residents to do the same."
- Minister Byrne

For information about Citizenship Week events, trivia, photos, videos, and more, visit www.cic.gc.ca/english/celebrate/citweek.asp .

QUICK FACTS

  • The Provincial Government is celebrating Canadian Citizenship Week, October 10-16
  • During Canadian Citizenship Week, red and white lights will light Confederation Building in St. John's.
  • All Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are encouraged to join in the celebration and display lights outside their homes as a symbol of support for diversity.
  • In the past 10 years, Canada has welcomed over 1,500,000 new Canadians.
  • The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has the goal to welcome 1,600 immigrants annually to the province by 2022.

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Media contact:

John Tompkins
Director of Communications
Department of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour
709-729-0753, 728-7762
jtompkins@gov.nl.ca

2016 10 11            11:50 a.m.