Mr. Speaker, I must admit I am unclear as to why the hon. member for Bourassa has asked that this particular response be clarified. The Minister of Citizenship and Immigration was straightforward and unambiguous in her original answer. I am puzzled that he did not understand the answer the first time around. Nevertheless, let me try to explain this issue in simple terms yet again.
Canada values its warm relations with Portugal. Our two countries have had a tradition of strong economic and cultural links. I know that both countries are anxious that this friendship continue. The hon. member has asked why we impose a visitor visa on Portugal. He has implied that there is something arbitrary in our decision. Let me assure him that it is simply not the case.
Citizenship and Immigration Canada has a responsibility to protect the integrity of our borders and our immigration program. It is a job that the department takes very seriously. Last year, 39 million visitors came to this country. This movement of people presents this country with both opportunities and challenges. Visitor visa requirements are an important tool which allow us to manage this flow of people effectively and efficiently.
The decision to impose or remove a visitor visa is not an arbitrary decision, far from it. Such a decision is taken only after thoughtful consideration of all alternative measures. The benefits of removing the visa requirement must be weighed against the potential for abuse.
When we look at removing a visitor visa requirement, we have to take many different factors into consideration. Does the country that the person is coming from have effective passport controls? Is there potential for forgery and abuse? Are there a large percentage of visitor visas refused each year? If so, why is that?
CIC officials conduct an ongoing review of countries affected by visitor visa requirements. Departmental staff keep a vigilant eye on the changing international landscape in order to develop policies which are fair and effective.
I can assure the hon. member that the visitor visa requirement on Portugal has no negative impact on regular immigration from that country. I would like to point out that the department has a one-day processing service in Lisbon.
As the minister said, she would be more than willing to look into this issue in the future if it becomes necessary.