News Release

April 28, 2005

New Passport Canada Receiving Agent in Fort McMurray

Gatineau, Quebec - The Honorable Anne McLellan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, announced on behalf of the Honorable Pierre Pettigrew, Minister of Foreign Affairs, that Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) at 9915 Franklin Avenue, Fort McMurray, Alberta, is now a Receiving Agent for Passport Canada. The hours of operation are Monday to Friday, from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

"This joint program between Passport Canada and HRSDC makes the passport application process more accessible to all Canadians," said Minister McLellan. "Opening a Receiving Agent in Fort McMurray will help meet the needs of Canadians in this region, by broadening access to government services."

In cooperation with Passport Canada, HRSDC employees at this site are responsible for reviewing passport applications to ensure accuracy and completeness. Applications are forwarded to Passport Canada for examination and, if approved, the application is processed and the requested travel document is delivered to the applicant by courier services within 20 working days, not including mailing time. Final decisions on passport entitlement remain with Passport Canada.

The Honourable Lucienne Robillard, President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, confirmed the Government of Canada's continuing commitment to serving Canadians where they live. "By making it easier for residents to apply for passports, we are delivering on our promise of improved service for Canadians, when and where they need it," said Minister Robillard.

Passport applicants will find a complete checklist to help them to identify the steps in the passport application process at www.pptc.gc.ca, or by calling the toll free lines at 1 800 567-6868 or 1 800 O-Canada.

Passport Canada is a Special Operating Agency of Foreign Affairs Canada. Its mission is to facilitate travel for Canadians by delivering internationally respected travel documents that meet the highest security standards in the world.

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