This amendment NDP-15, reference number 8213645, removes the power the minister currently has to indefinitely suspend citizenship proceedings to gather more evidence. This provision can indefinitely extend the length of the process, leaving potential citizens under duress as they are stuck in limbo waiting for an undisclosed period of time while knowing that they are being investigated. The organization that made a strong argument before this committee for this change was the Canadian Bar Association.
I think that for a reasonable person following proper due process it is unreasonable to say that you're being investigated and there is no time limit for how long this could occur. Literally this could happen until the day you die, and you're still under investigation because the act as it stands right now allows for indefinite suspension of citizenship proceedings. I think that's inappropriate and I think that needs to be addressed accordingly.
Aside from the Canadian Bar Association, also representing the Canadian Bar Association, individual Chris Veeman made some strong examples to the committee as to why this provision should be rectified. To that end, I move this amendment number 15, reference number 8213645.