Olympic hopeful given Canadian citizenship by immigration minister

Kaitlyn Weaver received her Canadian citizenship at a ceremony today after a special grant of citizenship issued by the federal cabinet. This will enable her to be eligible to represent Canada at the upcoming Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver, 2010.

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I am proud to welcome Kaitlyn Weaver as a Canadian,” Canadian Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney said.

“Our citizenship is one of the most valuable things we can possess.  Ms Weaver has made, and will continue to make, an exceptional contribution to Canada, and I am very pleased to be able to honour her commitment.”

“Today is the day that we, former immigrants, can continue our lives as Canadian citizens,” Kaitlyn Weaver said. “Each one of us has traveled from far and near to this country for different reasons, but I’m willing to bet that our goals were common. We have come to Canada to live and dream freely, happily, and with the welcoming embrace of the best people in the world. As citizens of Canada, we will become accustomed to Canadian culture, but also contribute things from our own backgrounds.”

Ms Weaver is an ice-dancer who, together with her Canadian partner, Andrew Poje, has competed for Canada at numerous international skating events since 2006, including the World Championships.

Ms Weaver and Mr Poje were silver medalists at the 2008 BMO Canadian Figure Skating Championships and they hope to qualify for the 2010 Games. In addition to her outstanding athletic contributions, Ms Weaver is an excellent student and active community volunteer.

The Canadian Citizenship Act contains a special provision that allows the Governor in Council, on the recommendation of the Minister, to reward services of an exceptional value to Canada by issuing a grant of citizenship like Ms Weaver’s.

Ms Weaver was born in Texas in 1989 and has been living since 2006.

Canada is looking for a variety of skilled people who wish to immigrate and enjoy the Canadian way of life. The Canadian Skilled Worker class of visa leads to permanent residency in Canada, which will put you on the pathway to citizenship.

To study in Canada, most foreign students need a Canadian Study Permit.

The Canadian Visa Bureau is an independent consulting company specialising in providing visa and immigration services to Canada.