“While there have been no specific incidents of identity theft related to the current birth certificate reported here on Prince Edward Island, our birth certificates are used world-wide,” said Thelma Johnston, Director of Vital Statistics for the Department of Health. “We want to ensure that Islanders are protected from identity theft wherever they go and we would like to remind Islanders to always keep their birth certificate in a secure place.”

The new card is made of hi-tech polymer material, which is more durable and is designed to last longer than the current card. The certificate replaces the current document, which is more than twenty years old.

Forensic document experts from RCMP, Canadian Security Intelligence Service, Canadian Passport Office and Canadian Border Services Agency have reviewed and approved the prototype and believe that the certificate is a very secure document with ample anti-counterfeiting and forgery security features.

The old certificate is still valid and will still be accepted as an identity document for people born in Canada. Old certificates will not be replaced free of charge, those wishing to order a new certificate will be charged the standard fee to cover the costs for producing and issuing the new document.

For more information on how to order a new certificate, visit the Vital Statistics section of the Department of Health website at www.gov.pe.ca/health or call toll free at 1-877-320-1253.