Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner is advancing a landmark private-member bill aimed at overhauling Canada’s immigration and citizenship framework. She argues that, after what she calls “a decade of Liberal mass-immigration policies that let too many people in too fast,” the automatic-birth citizenship rule and other permissive immigration practices have weakened the value of Canadian citizenship and undermined the national identity. In her post she asserted that “the responsibility sits with the Liberals, who broke the system and pushed a post-national view that shrugs at the notion of a shared Canadian identity.”
Rempel Garner proposes that citizenship should no longer be granted solely by virtue of being born on Canadian soil. Under her reform plan, at least one parent would need to be either a citizen or a permanent resident for a child born in Canada to be automatically eligible. She cites data indicating temporary residents now number around seven per cent of Canada’s population, and says that the “unrestricted” jus soli system invites abuse such as birth tourism. Her commentary warns that tinkering at the margins of the current laws won’t suffice. MP Rempel Garner calls for “bold” action to restore clear rules and meaningful integration.
If adopted, the bill would mark a significant shift in Canada’s immigration policy, potentially restricting automatic citizenship, tightening the connection between newcomers and Canadian civic life, and redefining the responsibilities that accompany citizenship. Critics of the proposal argue that it risks scapegoating new Canadians and may conflict with constitutional rights. Supporters say it restores fairness and strengthens the social contract.
