Strong Leadership for New Canadians

March 03, 2008

Canada is a nation of incredible diversity. Our country’s ability to attract the best and brightest from around the world is an enormous advantage that helps our economy grow and improves our quality of life.

The Conservative Government is building on this foundation by lifting the temporary visa requirement for visitors from Poland, Slovakia, Lithuania and Hungary. This will open up more opportunities for travel and trade and help more Canadians from our Polish, Slovakian, Lithuanian and Hungarian communities stay in touch with their families abroad.

Removing these visa requirements is the latest example how the Conservative Government shows leadership by responding to the needs of new Canadians and minority communities.

Soon after taking office, the Conservative Government halved the $975 right of landing fee imposed on new Canadians by the previous Liberal governments.

The Conservative Government also righted a historic wrong by formally apologizing for the Chinese Head Tax and providing survivors with compensation.

New Canadians, like all Canadians, benefit from the Conservative Government’s lower taxes, including a lower GST. All Canadians benefit from tough new laws that ensure safer streets. All Canadians benefit from Prime Minister Stephen Harper giving Canada a strong, confident voice on the world stage.

For too long, the Liberal Party has taken the needs of new Canadians and their families for granted. Real respect for our diverse communities is not measured by words, it is measured by real action. Now all Canadians have a Government that shares their belief that it matters what you’ve done and where you’re going, not where you’re from or who you know.

No matter how long they have lived in Canada, all Canadians deserve a government that is on their side so they can plan for the future with confidence.

Strong leadership. A better Canada.