Monarchy, military, marriage: revamped newcomers’ guide more than practical tips

OTTAWA – Say goodbye to the national anthem and hello to the Queen.

The federal Immigration Department has released a major overhaul to the handbook it gives newcomers to Canada.

While the new “Welcome to Canada” guide incorporates almost all of the content of its predecessor, it no longer includes the lyrics to the national anthem, which graced the old version’s first page.

Among the additions are a full page on Canada’s relationship with the monarchy, an explanation of the military and a lengthy section on Canada’s courts and laws.

Immigration Minister Jason Kenney says 90 per cent of the guide is meant to be practical, but it’s important to also be transparent about what behaviour isn’t tolerated in Canada.

He says that’s why the guide also includes sections on marriage fraud and violence against women.