Mr. Canada sworn in

@co:editor@transcontinental.ca

Springate, a well-known figure from the Montreal sports, political, educational and philanthropic scene, first worked as a citizenship judge from 1999-2005 and was reappointed in November 2006. He was named the senior citizenship judge by Ottawa last month. He was sworn in last Thursday afternoon during a ceremony held at the new East Community Centre in Pierrefonds. Afterwards, he swore in 38 new Canadians who took the oath of allegiance. The new Canadians came from 15 different countries, Springate said, such as Greece, Haiti, India, Syria and even the United States.

Springate, a former football player who won a Grey Cup, policeman, educator at John Abbott College, MNA, sportscaster and columnist (with The Chronicle) and a member of the Order of Canada, was praised for his enthusiasm and dedication to his community and country. Pierrefonds/Roxboro borough mayor Monique Worth mentioned their main outdoor sports complex next to Pierrefonds Comprehensive High School was named after Springate a few years ago.

Former MNA and MP Clifford Lincoln, one of the guest speakers at the swearing-in ceremony, dubbed Springate 'Mr. Canada.'

Lincoln said Springate is a remarkable citizen who exemplifies what is best about Canada, such as being bilingual and caring. He pointed out Springate's vast background, from lawyer, police officer to benevolent fundraiser.

"You would never know that George is such an accomplished person because he is always humble, because he is always ready to meet one and all, and his contributions to the community, to the city, to the province to our country have been exceptional," Lincoln said.

Springate told those assembled that Citizenship Week started up after World War II to honour the sacrifices made by Canadian soldiers to keep our country strong and free. "It's to appreciate the privileges, the rights and the golden opportunities that we all have (because of their efforts)," he added.

Springate, 68, said his new role as Canada's senior citizenship judge — a five-year term —will keep him in Ottawa often as well as travelling across the country, but he will maintain his Pierrefonds roots. He will manage and verify the work of 42 citizenship judges across the country.

"There were some 225,000 new Canadians last year, that's a lot of work," he said.

Springate said he is looking forward to his new role. "It's a wonderful way to end a career," he said. "It's a job that demands a true love for your country. I will be travelling a lot."