Okay.
If you think I have gone through all of this over the last 35 years to take advantage of any government services in Canada, you are very wrong. I have skills I could contribute to the economy if I choose to return to Canada after you grant me my citizenship. Presently I am a notary public in the State of California, working exclusively in the real estate and mortgage field. Previously, I owned my own business for 13 years, specializing in assistive computer technology for people with disabilities.
Before I finish my presentation and leave Parliament today, I would like the name of the person I can send my citizenship application and all my documentation to, to start the process to get back my Canadian citizenship. I don't want to send papers in, originals and copies, as well as the payment only to wait 18 months or two years to either receive my citizenship or be told yet again that I don't qualify.
I have listened to and read statements from the Honourable Diane Finlay. I understand that it is still taking people in our group 18 months to two years.
I'll just wrap it up.
I want to thank Mr. Don Chapman, Mr. Andrew Telegdi, and all the others who are working so hard, for their valiant efforts to correct this terrible injustice.
I also want to tell you that the 888-242-2100 call centre hotline for Citizenship and Immigration Canada that was given to help answer questions cannot be reached outside of Canada.
Thank you again for the opportunity to speak with you today. I could have given you many more details about the frustrations in contacting the different departments in Canada, as well as embassies and consulates.