NEWS RELEASES

November 24, 2005 (10:05 a.m. EST)
No. 233

MINISTER PETTIGREW ANNOUNCES SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT FOR UPCOMING ITALIAN NATIONAL ELECTIONS

Foreign Affairs Minister Pierre Pettigrew today announced a special arrangement between Canada and Italy to permit Italian citizens and dual citizens residing in Canada to stand as candidates for seats in the Italian parliament for the upcoming Italian national election, to be held no later than May 2006. The arrangement does not affect the ability of those individuals to vote in Italian national elections and referenda, as they have had that right since 1981.

“I am delighted to announce this arrangement, which will complement the close political, economic and cultural ties already shared by Canada and Italy,” said Minister Pettigrew. “This follows extensive discussion and consultations with the Government of Italy and the Italo-Canadian community, and reflects shared interests and a common commitment to democratic values.”

Under this arrangement, voting and campaigning may take place by postal mail, via e-mail, the Internet, and within Italy’s extensive network of diplomatic and consular offices across Canada. The Government of Canada will observe and review the running of this Italian electoral campaign in Canada before considering similar requests in the future.

Canada joins many other countries with diverse, multicultural societies in agreeing to this type of electoral arrangement with Italy.

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

James Christoff
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
(613) 995-1851

Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs Canada
(613) 995-1874
http://www.international.gc.ca