A special citizenship ceremony was held in Ajax on July 1, with 33 sworn-in by Judge Philip Gaynor.

The new Canadians came from Antigua and Barbuda, India, Jamaica, Kuwait, Lebanon, the Philippines and the United States.

Zack Salman, his wife Fadia and five-year-old daughter Jona came from Lebanon four years ago.

They came "for a better life, a better future for our daughter," Mr. Salman said. "Some things were different, but we're managing."

Bonny Andrade, his wife Maureen, son Warren, 13, and daughters Nicole and Denise, 9, came from Bombay, India and now live in Ajax.

They came to Canada "because it's a peaceful country," Mr. Andrade said. "We like the values, the free enterprise."

He works as a nuclear operator at the Pickering generating station.

There were a "few initial" settling issues, but "it's getting better by the day. We love it," he said. "It's especially good for the kids here. We settled in from Day 1. Coming from Bombay, which is a multicultural place."

The swearing-in ceremony was held in the council chambers of the Ajax Town hall with about 75 people attending.

About 160,000 people immigrate to Canada each year, said Joanne Dies, the president of the board of directors for the Community Development Council. "They proudly make Canada their home. They come for a number of reasons, primarily for their children."

"It's a pleasure to be here on the most joyous days of your life," said Judge Gaynor, who himself emigrated from Ireland in 1963. "I know that you are very excited and I am as excited as you are.

"I have come to love this country and I am sure you will," he said.

Becoming a citizen was "a lot of hard work for you. I congratulate you on your dedication," Judge Gaynor said. "It's not easy to leave the land of your birth. We will accept you into the family of Canada."

"By taking the oath, you are publicly saying you want to shape Canada for generations to come," Judge Gaynor said.

"There isn't an expectation on you to give up your culture and heritage. We want you to share it," said Ajax-Pickering MP Mark Holland. "The real strength of Canada is we draw on each others strengths. Be active participants on moulding and shaping our country."

"I know you will have a great future here and we want to assist you," said Ajax Mayor Steve Parish.

"We will work with you to help you engage in community life," said Tracey Vaughan, the executive director of the Community Development Council Durham.

An immigrant from Birmingham, England, Ms. Vaughan said she became a citizen 12 years ago.

She told the new citizens the "possibilities are endless" in Canada.

"Love the old country, but love Canada more," Judge Gaynor said in ending the ceremony.