The Sgro Affair

On January 14, Citizenship and Immigration Minister Judy Sgro resigned her position, without the prime minister requesting it. She did so because she had been accused of receiving food for her election staff in exchange for having a Mr. Singh avoid deportation.

Mr. Harjit Singh entered Canada as a visitor 17 years ago. His application to remain in Canada was refused a half dozen times. Perhaps as a last desperate effort to stay, he claimed that the Minister had him arrested and a deportation order prepared.

Mrs. Sgro filed a lawsuit against Mr. Singh and others. Her claim was that they were guilty of libel, slander and conspiracy.

A federal court judge later upheld the deportation order saying that Mr. Singh’s story did not make sense, that an experienced politician would never risk a career and reputation for free pizzas and other food items. Mr. Singh was put on a plane for India on February 2.

Those Canadians who know Judy Sgro accept her as a conscientious politician who worked very hard serving her constituents and the people of Canada. It is hoped that she will soon return to a position in cabinet.