Starting June 1, 2009 a new U.S. law will require all Canadians to present a valid passport when entering the United States.
The first time Galipeau and his staff welcomed constituents in his office on Centrum Boulevard in September 2007, 250 residents showed up. Positive word-of-mouth ensured that by the second passport clinic in November 2007, 400 people were waiting in line.
Galipeau and his team are providing this service to better accommodate residents in the east end who can’t make office hours.
“I’m just trying to bring a government service to the people,” said Galipeau.
The next passport clinic will take place Saturday, March 28 at 255 Centrum Blvd. from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Another clinic will follow on Saturday, April 18 as well as an evening clinic on Friday, April 17 from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Residents must bring a driver’s license or health card, an original birth certificate or Canadian citizenship card and a person with a valid passport who has known them for two years or more.
The only acceptable methods of payment for passports are certified cheque, money order (postal or bank) made payable to the Receiver General of Canada, VISA, MasterCard and American Express. Payment by cash or debit will not be accepted at the clinic.
Passport application forms can be obtained at any Passport Canada office, Service Canada Centre or Canada Post office.
To better accommodate snow birds and residents leaving the country for March break next year, Galipeau will also host another three clinics this fall for the busy winter vacation season.
– By Sonia Morin