First of all, greetings and thanks to my introducer and to our emcee for today, your Member of Parliament, the Minister for this province.

Great to be here in your home base.

Everybody give your MP and your Minister a big round of applause, the Honourable Gail Shea.

Also, greetings to my colleagues who have joined us from across Atlantic Canada, Member of Parliament Scott Armstrong from Nova Scotia, Member of Parliament Robert Goguen from New Brunswick, and Senator Carolyn Stewart-Olsen, who has also joined us from New Brunswick.

Greetings to Mayor Basil Stewart of Summerside, Mayor Gordon Coffin of Kensington.

And also, our thanks to our hosts today, to Jeff Poirier, the president of Vector Aerospace Engine Services Atlantic, and thanks to all of the workers and management for hosting us here today at this fine facility.

It’s always nice, always a pleasure to be back in Prince Edward Island, the place where Canada was born, and a place where many Canadians come to play on your pristine beaches, on your beautiful fairways.

The tourists will be back soon, and this island will once again play host to tens of thousands who come here to enjoy the beautiful landscape and the grand hospitality for which you’re so famously known.

They come here to slow down and smell the sea as well as the roses.

But there’s another side to PEI’s story that has nothing to do with slowing down.

It’s a story that has little to do with Green Gables, red soil, or even lobsters.

It’s the story of places like this, a world-class facility where Islanders are doing world-class work, places like this where companies active in information technology, bioscience, and renewable energy are breaking new ground, places like this where companies have made aerospace one of the islands largest international exports, now worth hundreds of millions of dollars in annual sales.

One of those companies is MDS Pratt Technologies, right here in Summerside, a local company with a global footprint.

In fact, when a plane or helicopter lands in the deserts of Afghanistan or Iraq, chances are its engine is protected from the harsh environment by a special coating developed right here in PEI, developed with the help of an investment from the Atlantic Innovation Fund.

And standing here, I doubt I need to remind you that an Atlantic Innovation Fund investment has helped Vector Aerospace to develop this state of the art centre for repair excellence.

What a great facility.

What a great story of which you should all be very proud.

So let’s give our hosts a big hand for having us today, and further future success.

Our Government is committed to Atlantic Canada and a future built on innovation and growth.

That’s why in our Economic Action Plan, we made funding permanent for the Atlantic Innovation Fund.

Now companies here in PEI and across the entire region can commit to research and development knowing that the government is solidly behind them.

In fact, since our Government was elected in 2006, the Atlantic Innovation Fund has invested half a billion dollars in dozens of innovative research and development projects right across Atlantic Canada.

These projects have resulted in groundbreaking research and new products in demand around the world.

They’ve also resulted in jobs, jobs that attract bright minds from across the globe and allow Islanders to work right here in the beautiful place you call home.

All across Atlantic Canada, companies have used Atlantic Innovation Fund investments to create jobs, growth, and long-term prosperity for this dynamic region.

With AIF support, Forest Protection Limited of New Brunswick is developing new green pesticides and creating more eco-friendly and efficient aerial spray technologies to deliver them.

This will help protect forests around the world from the devastating impact of pests while also meeting strict environmental standards.

When scientists in Nova Scotia discovered how to transform fish oil into a fine powder, the Atlantic Innovation Fund helped Ocean Nutrition Canada develop new technology to take this breakthrough to market. ONC is now the world’s largest supplier of concentrated fish oils, and has set the industry standard for quality.

Lotek, a St. John’s based company, has used an AIF investment to make something called a nano-LAT, a data storage tag smaller than a jellybean.

This tag enables researchers to monitor and analyse the position, movement and behaviour of wildlife and marine animals.

And this data gives scientists a better understanding of animal lives and migratory patterns, not just for research and conservation, but also for natural resource management.

Lotek now partners in fish and wildlife research being conducted in more than 35 countries, on every continent, and in every ocean.

Groundbreaking projects like these bring innovative products to market for the benefit of this region, all Canadians, and indeed, the entire world.

That’s why, ladies and gentlemen, it gives me great pleasure today to announce the latest PEI projects to receive Atlantic Innovation Fund investments, investments in jobs and growth, investments in long-term prosperity, investments in the people right here in Prince Edward Island. 

The investments announced today will help Bio Vector Inc. further develop delivery technology for injectable medications.

This will improve patient outcomes and drive further drive development projects.

Delivra Inc. will use today’s investments to develop more effective topical creams to relieve joint pain and improve circulation, and this funding will help Island Abbey Foods to research and develop ways to use its innovative, dehydrated honey to create – let me quote the scientists here – quote, “a delivery vehicle for a broad range of natural therapeutic projects”.

 In less technical terms, I think you might say they are improving the spoonful of sugar that helps the medicine go down.

I should also mention, since we are in an aerospace facility, that Island Abbey Foods has already been in space.

Their flagship product, the Honeybee Honey Drop blasted off with Commander Chris Hadfield last December after becoming a finalist in NASA’s Snacks for Space program.

As an aside, I’d like to, as Prime Minister, to welcome Commander Chris Hadfield back to Earth.

He has made all Canadians proud.

What a tremendous mission.

Ladies and gentlemen, all of these investments will help transform the great scientific discoveries made right here in PEI into real products in demand around the globe, literally around the globe.

They will build on a record of success and further strengthen both this province and this region.

If no man dreams, Lucy Maud Montgomery wrote in a different age, “If no man dreams, there will be nothing for the workers to fulfil”.

Today we are taking a step forward to fulfil the dreams of all the hardworking families of Atlantic Canada, the dreams of greater prosperity for the generations to come.

And we are doing so here and in places like it, where the sweet salt air will always gladden the hearts of those for who Canada’s Atlantic coast is their home or their heritage.

Thank you.  

I’m joined here today by my colleagues from Winnipeg, Joyce Bateman, Minister Vic Toews, by Lawrence Toth, and by Shelly Glover.

So thank you, colleagues, for being here.

I’m also joined today for this roundtable by some very special guests who have come from different parts of the country.

Special greetings to Carol Todd, mother of Amanda, who recently, I know, met with Laureen, my wife in Vancouver, to Leah Parsons and Glen Canning, obviously parents of Rehtaeh, who I recently in my office in Ottawa, Pamela Murchison, mother of Jenna Bowers-Bryanton, also with us today, and Joanne Proctor, aunt of Kimberly Proctor.

As well, I’m also joined by Lianna McDonald, from the Canadian Centre for Child Protection that we toured this morning and is doing such great work with programs like Cybertip and their Need Help Now campaign, which you all heard about very recently.

To everybody who is here, you know, I wish I could tell you that a roundtable like today’s was not needed.

But the reality is that we’re here.

We’re here partly in remembrance of Amanda, who was 15, Jenna, also 15, Rehtaeh, 17, and Kimberly, 18 years old.

All very beautiful young girls with bright futures, just like my daughter.

And you know, I think we need to remember these were not just the children of these parents.

These were all of our children.

And as a society, we have to do everything we can to ensure that the kind of events that befell these beautiful young girls do not befall other of our beautiful children in the future.

The internet is, in most ways, a great development for our society.

Unfortunately, it has other purposes and other uses, and young people are extremely vulnerable to things like cyber bullying, that I’d prefer to call things like cyber intimidation, cyber assault, and to some terrible crimes, and most shockingly of all, often crimes committed in virtually complete anonymity.

We have consistently as a government made cracking down on crime one of our priorities in office, ever since we first came to power in 2006.

Mais notre gouvernement en fera encore davantage pour que nos enfants soient à l’abri de l’exploitation en ligne.

But our Government will be doing more to ensure that our children are safe from online predators and from online exploitation.

We are expediting a review of the criminal code with the provinces that was already underway on these very matters to identify potential gaps with regard to cyber bullying, cyber intimidation, and cyber assault, as well as the non-consensual distribution of images.

And we are looking for other practical suggestions to combat such terrible acts.

I’m joined today not only by these family members and by Lianna, but also a number of other organizations who are represented here today. I know you know the other people here, Prevnet, Kids Help Phone, Respect Group, all organizations that work regularly on these kinds of issues, and we’re here to hear from all of you, both, obviously, parents who have experienced these things in the most awful way firsthand, but also organizations who work with dozens and hundreds and unfortunately thousands of related cases every single year.

So I want to thank you all for being here and for sharing with us as we move forward on dealing with this, and I particularly do want to thank everybody, I do want to thank the family members.

I want to thank you for coming here and sharing with us for, as I say, we as parents can only begin to imagine what you’re going through.

But we want to thank you for taking that pain and for sharing it in a way that will contribute to solutions for all of our children.

This is something for which I’m very thankful, and I know which Canadian families across this country are thankful.

So please, not only my condolences, but my greatest respect for the fact that you’ve come here today and you’re working with these organizations on resolving some of these very serious social problems that we have.

So thanks, everybody.

Merci.

Esteemed fellow Parliamentarians, Christian Paradis, thank you so much for your kind introduction.

Steven Blaney, Suzanne Fortin-Duplessis, Richard Rivard, Ghislain Maltais, Jean-Guy Dagenais, Josée Verner, Claude Carignan, Michelle Morin-Doyle, Deputy Mayor of Quebec City, Directors, executives of CO2 Solutions, Glenn Kelly and Evan Price, dear workers, ladies and gentlemen, as you know it’s always a pleasure for me to visit beautiful Quebec City.

The last time I was here I had the good fortune of meeting some of the pillars of the economy, including my good friend  Bonhomme.

I’m told that Bonhomme was one of those rare souls saddened to see the last of the snow finally melt away.

Be that as it may, our Government plays a crucial role in helping create jobs in your city and throughout Canada, as evidenced by our support for the Carnival, PEPS and many other innovative projects.

Because the economy remains our Government’s chief priority.

In our latest budget, Canada’s Economic Plan 2013, our Government is staying the course on job creation and long-term prosperity, and our action plan contains a series of measures that will continue to support growth in local economies like this one.

After all, the Quebec City region is doing very well when it comes to employment.

The economist in me would even say that we’re bordering on full employment here.

Friends, as you know, the Canadian economy is based in large part on the abundance of our natural resources.

We need to develop those resources to maintain our economic strengths.

We must develop those resources so that we can meet the challenges of what still remains a very fragile global economy, but we also have a duty to ourselves and to future generations, the duty to develop those resources in a way that is responsible and that respects the environment.

It was in that spirit that we created the ecoENERGY Innovation Initiative.

This initiative is an integral part of our Government’s plan to combat air pollution.

It will also help curb greenhouse gas emissions.

We have a practical approach based on Canada’s best interests, an approach that reconciles our environmental goals with job creation.

Today it is my great pleasure to announce that our government will fund more than 50 innovative projects, projects that will create jobs, new technologies, and reduce the impact of our energy consumption throughout Canada.

We’re talking here about electric cars, wind energy, and such things as community energy projects.

One example is Quebec City’s very own CO2 Solutions.

This company has proposed an ambitious idea: a low-cost way of capturing 90 percent of CO2 emissions.

I’m also pleased to announce today that our Government will be partnering with CO2 Solutions in this emissions reduction project.

Carbon capture is a practical way of developing our petroleum resources in a responsible, cost-effective manner.

The CO2 Solutions project could reduce the costs of this technology by 25 percent.

This truly shows that the wealth created some 3000 kilometres away can also contribute to economic growth of a business right here.

The Canadian economic union is very real, and its benefits are felt in all of our communities.

On the question of oil sands alone, a number of local firms have stepped up to the plate.

Not only CO2 Solutions, but in addition such firms as Prevoca on the South Shore, which produces heavy equipment essential to developing this resource.

What’s more, companies like Premier Tech, which I visited recently in à Rivière-du-Loup, depend on affordable development of our petroleum resources.

As you know, when we build the infrastructure essential to exporting our resources, it’s the entire country that benefits.

Be it in the forestry, mining or gas sectors, it is imperative that we seize the opportunities that are before us.

And in so doing, we’ll continue to bring about economic growth, job creation and long-term prosperity for all Canadians.

Thank you.

Thank you also, John, for that kind introduction, and for your good work.

John, as he mentioned, worked very hard, spent three times getting to be where he is now, and he has been a tremendous introduction to our caucus.

It’s a pleasure to go into work every day and work with you, John, and so everybody, give him a big hand for the great work he’s doing on your behalf.

Premier Wynne, councillors Parker, Stintz, Fragedakis, Devon David, our MCs, Ian Proudfoot of Metroland, our sponsors, ladies and gentlemen, friends, it really is a great thrill for me to be here tonight, it really is.

I want to congratulate also Counciller Parker, all of his people, John and Virginia, everybody else, for all the hard work that made tonight possible.

Give them a big hand, everybody, one more time.

When a guy dresses up like that, you can give him a whole bunch of big hands, I tell you.

Now, friends, a couple of months ago, a couple of months back, my staff sent me the text of a proposed video that I’d been asked to take for tonight’s event.

It began by quoting a song.

The quote is “There are places I remember all my life.”

Many of you will recognize it as a Beatles song.

In it, John Lennon reminisces about the neighbourhood of his youth, how some things have changed, how some things are the same, that some of the people he once knew there are now gone, and that some remain.

The song includes a baroque style piano solo, and it seems at times to hover almost between a major and a minor key, between fondness and sadness, as reminiscing tends to do.
It was not one of the Beatles big hits, but it is one of their most subtle and most beautiful songs, and it is one of their first truly great artistic achievements.

The song was written mid-1965, and that, of course, is the Leaside I remember.

The great cultural changes of that period were only be happening around the edges.

All the parents still listened to very stodgy old CFRB.

And the teenagers were tuning into CHUM.

And North Lea Elementary School, we had completely segregated schoolyards, boys and girls, and you’re never supposed to go between them.

A few of the older boys were starting to wear their hair a little bit over the ears, and a few of the older girls were wearing tighter clothes and shorter skirts, and most shocking of all for the Parent Teacher Association, there were stories about some of them actually kissing.

You might expect that some of my early memories of that time were political.

The truth of the matter is not so much.

But I can think of a couple of early political memories.

In fact, my first real vivid political memory in Leaside around about that time is the debate over whether Canada should have a new flag.

Those of you who were alive then will remember that emotions ran very high. Neighbours, many neighbours stopped speaking to one another, so intense were the differences.

As a five-year-old boy, I decided to plough right into this, insisting on asking everyone in the street what their position was on the flag, and why.

I was just curious.

I remember that about half the people wanted the old flag, but they actually fell into two camps.

For most of them, the old flag was the Canadian Red Ensign, but for a smaller and very passionate group, it meant the Union Jack. For the other half of the people on our street, which, by the way, included my parents, they wanted the new flag, but there was also a bit of division there, because some of you may remember, there were two principal designs for the new flag.

The Harpers liked the one with the blue borders and three maple leaves, three maple leaves, and of course, our present flag that I wear today with the red borders and the one maple leaf also had many advocates.

I remember very well going outside Mrs. Fortier’s kindergarten class one day and watching the new flag go up the pole at the school, and very quickly, peace returned to the neighbourhood.

But if Leasiders were divided on that issue, there was one on which we were all united.

In fact, it defined us.

And that was that Leaside should be an independent municipality.

I have long told people who asked me – because I do get asked this question in different parts of the country – “So where exactly do you come from?”

And I say to them that I grew up in a small town in Toronto.

Leasiders then – and I think, to this day – know what I mean.

But back then, in the 1960s, we meant it literally.

It also meant growing up here back then that you fully understood, as I have been taught, that one of the great wrongs of human history was the loss of Leaside’s status as a separate incorporated municipality in the amalgamation of 1967.

I’ve heard some people tell the story, tell a story that somehow when I was a boy, I met John Diefenbaker, and that’s what set me on my current path, my political journey.

Actually, I never met John Diefenbaker.

I never met him then; I never met him later.

I did, however, as a boy, one day, when I was out going around the town with my father, I did meet Mayor True Davidson.

Does anybody remember True Davidson?

She was quite a character, and I remember, I was a very young boy.

She spoke to me very nicely, and I remember my father thought that she was ok, she was alright.

However, she was never going to be, to us or to anyone who knew her, or to anyone who I knew in this area, our mayor.

She was the mayor of East York.

How could anyone think that Leaside could be properly or fairly ruled by someone from as far away as East York?

You know? This is how I grew up!

As a boy, I knew I could walk down to Sunnybrook Plaza, I could buy some snacks, help get groceries for my mother, I could go another way, I could walk to my doctor’s office, maybe all the way to Sunnybrook Hospital to have Dr. Ross give me my allergy shots.

I could go another way to the wilds of Serena Gundy Park.

I could walk to Howard Talbert or Trace Mains to play sports.

Beyond that, we could walk down to the railway station, which we regularly did, my dad, my brothers and I, where we would watch the trains come in from out of town.

I could walk beyond those places to other parks.

We could walk to the businesses along Eglinton and Bayview, and we could come here to Leaside’s industrial area, where back then many of my friends’ parents actually worked.

But I was told I could walk for days and days and still, I would never reach as far away as East York.

I know it all seems, now, a bit small and a bit surreal, but it went to a truth about Leaside.

In Leaside, you were and I was part of a community in the most intimate and the very best sense of the term.

My mother, Margaret Harper, who, by the way, is living in Calgary now, is in great health, and who wants to say hello to anyone from her Leaside days, my mother, when we recently talked about this over breakfast in Calgary as I was preparing this speech, that is, that, she says, what she remembers about Leaside.

What a community it truly was.

And she told me about a bunch of stories as an example.

She remembers that once she scalded herself in the kitchen severely with hot water.

With my father at work, and there were three small children running around, apparently making noise, and she was in some significant discomfort, she phoned the Leaside Pharmacy for advice.

The pharmacist not only answered the phone personally, he insisted on driving up to the house himself to deliver the treatment.

That’s my mother’s Leaside, and that’s the Leaside I remember, too.

When I was a boy here, you felt safe, you knew people were looking out for you. You felt you could knock, and did in fact knock on any door at any time if you were in trouble or you needed something.

Of course, if you were doing something bad, you could be pretty certain your parents were going to find out about it.

People were personally responsible and civically minded.

I can’t comment so much on what Leaside is like today.

I know everything in our society is so different than it was five decades ago.

But from what I hear from those I know who still live in or around here, it still is a pretty special place.

And I have to tell you, it has aged pretty well.

Leaside was never a poor area, but its strength, its services and its location have brought changes and prices that have made it an affluent neighbourhood in a way unimaginable in 1971 when my parents sold the house I grew up in for $39,500.

Probably not the wisest financial transaction they ever made.

Still, Leaside remains very, very recognizable.

A few years back, this was a time when I was out of politics and I was here on business, I got off the bus one day, just got off the bus at the corner of Bayview and Eglinton, and I decided to walk around, to go through all the places I frequented for the first 12 years of my life.

And I have to tell you, things were remarkably familiar, maybe a bit smaller, a bit closer together, of course, than they seemed when I was a small child, but most of it that I was seeing for the first time in a quarter of a century, was strangely, almost hauntingly, identical.

And it made me realize how hardwired Leaside really is in my consciousness: every street, every yard, every alley, every crack in the pavement, I can close my eyes and I can see these places as they were, and as, in fact, in many cases, they largely still are.

Except that many of the people I see are now gone.

My father, my grandparents who would visit, aunts and uncles, family friends, our older neighbours.

As the song says, in my life, I loved them all.

But all their love, and so much love, that I still carry with me.

That day I walked through Leaside a few years back, that’s what it brought back.

In fact, I tell people I went to my old house at 324 Besmer Drive, and I even saw a boy in front of that house.

He was about six years old.

And as he turned and looked at me, I could have sworn it was me.

And then when I looked again, he was gone.

That was a lifetime ago.

In my life, it was several lifetimes ago.

That lifetime in Leaside I can never go back to, but I never can entirely leave it either, which is why I thought that on this, the centennial of this very special community, I should come here and convey these memories to you in person, and to thank you for the opportunity to do so, and to wish you another century of creating good memories for many more.

Thank you.

Also, I should mention, and Consul General for Trinidad and Tobago in Quebec, who’s also here with us, Richard Yufe.

As well, greetings to the representatives of one of our sponsors, the Canadian Council for the Americas, Kenneth Frankle, and Marina Jimenez.

Ladies and gentlemen, mesdames et messieurs, I am delighted to be here among so many people who share a deep affection for both of our countries.

I have to tell you, Prime Minister, it’s been a real pleasure to welcome you to Toronto, the great city where I was actually born and raised, and Chris is right, about 200 years ago, things weren’t looking too good here.

The American army was bearing down and about to destroy the then-small town, but some of you from Trinidad and Tobago should know the rest of the story, that not only, of course, did we rebuild; we retaliated and burned Washington because of what they did here.

Anyway, the last 200 years have been much better.

Anyway, this is a city that, as been mentioned, is now home to tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands who trace their roots throughout the Caribbean region and to Trinidad and Tobago in particular.

All of those tens and hundreds of thousands of people who have come here to escape the harshness of the Caribbean winter.

I keep trying to find an explanation.

Our two countries are different in so many ways, not just in weather; also, of course, in size.

And yet we also have many things in common that have already been mentioned by speakers tonight.

Both our countries are blessed with abundant natural resources, particularly, obviously, in the energy field.

Both benefit from and celebrate, and celebrate a rich cultural diversity.

Both are committed to expanding our trade and economic ties, and making sure that those things benefit and include all of our citizens.

I had the great pleasure of visiting Trinidad and Tobago not once, but twice in 2009, when I attended the Summit of the Americas, and also the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting.

I saw firsthand what an open, vibrant and dynamic country it really is.

And just last year, Canada’s Governor General, the Right Honourable David Johnston, also visited Trinidad and Tobago to help celebrate its first 50 years as an independent nation.

But it was also an opportunity to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of our friendship.

In fact, Canada was one of the very first countries to recognize Trinidad and Tobago upon independence in 1962, and we have been fast friends ever since, building strong bilateral ties, not just between ourselves, but ties that were increasingly making use of and promoting common cause around the hemisphere and the world.

We’ve worked closely together in the Commonwealth, the United Nations, the Summit of the Americas, and the Organization of American States.

And today, Prime Minister, I think you would agree that we’ve moved our friendship forward, building on the discussions we had last year when we met in Colombia at the Summit of the Americas.

Our Government has made deeper engagement with our neighbours in the hemisphere a priority, as has already been mentioned tonight, and I want to thank your government and in particular you, Prime Minister, for being such a willing and able partner as we continue down that path.

Advancing trade between Canada and the Caribbean community is a goal both our countries share.

In fact, as has been mentioned, we’ve been trading partners for a very long time, since the days of sail, when ships headed south from our east coast ports filled with salt cod, and returned with cargos of sugar, molasses and rum. Today Trinidad and Tobago is one of our largest trading partners within the Caribbean community.

We measure Canadian investment in Trinidad and Tobago in the billions of dollars.

It’s actually one of our largest investment target countries anywhere.

And our annual two-way trade is in the hundreds of millions of dollars.

And I know there are many businesspeople here this evening who are working hard to increase those numbers.

So at this moment, I would like to share some encouraging news.

Earlier today our two governments took steps that will lead to increased cooperation, economic development, and an even stronger relationship.

For instance, Canada will share expertise on public-private partnerships with Trinidad and Tobago, and in fact with the wider CARICOM community.

As well, earlier today we witnessed the signing of memoranda of understanding that provides for cooperation on national security, and also to formalize an important military training program between our two countries.

We’ve also moved forward on post-secondary education.

Thousands of students from Trinidad and Tobago have come to Canada to obtain university degrees, and today an agreement was signed that was signed between Brock University and the University of Trinidad and Tobago will expand cooperation between them in many useful areas of endeavour.

So we hope that even more of your young people will come to study in Canada.

Here they will join more than - I don’t know, I’ve been given many figures.

Anywhere from 60 to 100,000 other people who have roots in the islands.

Ladies and gentlemen, these arrangements not only make our countries stronger, they deepen a friendship that I believe is truly a model for the hemisphere.

In fact, I would go further.

I think this relationship is really a model for the world.

I saw this most vividly when I visited Trinidad and Tobago in 2009, and I was privileged to spend some time at the Maple Leaf School.

It’s one of two schools there that uses the same curriculum as Ontario.

It points to a particular closeness, doesn’t it, that on any given day, a girl in grade four in Petit Valley, Trinidad, is studying exactly the same material as a grade four boy in Grand Valley, Ontario.

And who knows?

One day they may meet here in Canada, perhaps at Brock University.

In such a way, this diplomacy, the diplomacy of simple things, it is through this that friendship takes root between peoples.

The motto of Trinidad and Tobago is “Together we aspire, together we achieve,” and Prime Minister, if I may be a little bold, I would suggest that it is also a fitting motto for the relationship between our two countries, one that has been built on a strong foundation of trust, shared values, and a deep and lasting mutual respect, and all of that has a tremendous future.

Thank you. 

Your visit reminds us that our two countries have had a strong diplomatic relationship for over 50 years.

Indeed, Canada was one of the first countries to recognize Trinidad and Tobago after it gained independence from Great Britain in 1962.

In that regard, we appreciate the warm hospitality that was shown to His Excellency, the Governor General David Johnston, during his state visit last year when he joined you for your country’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

I too have my own pleasant recollections of visiting Port of Spain twice, both times during 2009, for the Summit of the Americas, and later that year, for the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting.

I know you also are no stranger to Canada, but I do hope that you will find the time that you spend here with us now to be as congenial as the time I spent in your own beautiful country.

Canada and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago share close connections, our Commonwealth heritage of language and institutions, and of course, ties of friendship and family.
I’m told that more than 60,000 sons and daughters of Trinidad and Tobago now make their home in Canada. No doubt, they’re trying to escape the harsh Caribbean winter.

Anyway, these ties have enriched the fabric of life in our country.

They’ve also built the strong foundation, a strong and growing foundation of economic relationships.

I enjoyed reading some of their stories in the commemorative book that your High Commission published for the 5th anniversary of your independence.

Since independence, Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean’s largest, most diversified and industrialized economy has also become Canada’s second largest trading partner in the Caribbean region.

I should therefore like to take the opportunity to express our appreciation for your government’s leadership as we work towards closer trade ties between Canada and the community.

And I know we discussed today, that will be one of your priorities as you take over the chairmanship of CARICOM.

In discussions earlier today, we affirmed, reaffirmed our mutual commitment to increased trade and investment as the most effective responses to hemispheric economic challenges.

I’m therefore pleased to announce that we’ve just taken steps to increase cooperation between Canada and Trinidad and Tobago in the areas of commerce, security, and academia.

Canada will share expertise on public-private partnerships with Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean region.

And a few moments ago, we witnessed the signing of a memorandum of agreement on national security between the Canadian Commercial Corporation and the government of Trinidad and Tobago.

To assist Trinidad and Tobago in taking on a greater role in regional security, we’ve also signed a memorandum of understanding that formalizes its participation in Canada’s military training cooperation program.

Finally, it’s widely recognized that the people of Trinidad and Tobago are among the most well educated in the Caribbean.

I know that you, yourself, Prime Minister, hold two degrees, legal qualifications and an MBA, so I’m sure that you will share my satisfaction at the agreement that was also just signed to expand cooperation between Brock University and the University of Trinidad and Tobago.

Prime Minister, I look forward to joining you later today in Toronto as we meet with Canadian citizens and business leaders whose heritage is that of your beautiful islands.

On behalf of all Canadians, I wish you a very enjoyable visit.

Once again, Prime Minister, welcome.

We know you’re extremely busy, and we appreciate this opportunity to have a dialogue and share some thoughts on some important economic issues as well. 

I’m delighted to be here in Brantford with my colleague, Phil McColeman, delighted that you’re able to set this up, Phil, and of course my other colleague, the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. 

One of the things we’re going to be talking about today is obviously the economy and job creation, and specifically what the government’s doing to move forward on that. 

As you know, Canada has by far one of the best job creation records in the developed world post-recession, but we are in a challenging global economy, and job creation does remain a challenge. 

The reality we see in many parts of the country is that there are too few people, too many people who are looking for work, and too many jobs that are looking for people. 

So one of the measures we have in the most recent federal budget is what we are calling the Canada Job Grant, and that is our efforts to bring together employers, whether they be enterprises or non-profit organizations, and individuals, and in collaboration with our government, and hopefully with the provinces to create a job grant where we can give people the necessary training they need to fill positions that already exist, and so that’s one of the things we’re going to be talking about with these gentlemen today, is this is the first meeting we’re having across the country, consulting with the business community and others, on how specifically we can tailor this to make this new program as effective as possible. 

In conjunction with the provinces and the business community, we want to create a grant worth about $15,000 to fill job openings and create the necessary training to do so. 

So this is a major step forward in our efforts to continue creating jobs. 

But obviously, gentlemen, we’ll be discussing anything that’s on your mind in terms of the economy and what the government needs to do to keep this country moving forward. 

I also want to say, just before we wrap up, a couple of words on the evolving situation in the United States. 

So just briefly, let me congratulate American authorities for their rapid action that is obviously leading us towards a conclusion of these terrible events. 

Canada, of course, always stands ready to assist our American friends. 

And let me repeat just one more time our condolences to all the friends and families of the victims. 

 I do note that unfortunately there was one additional victim overnight. 

“Thank you very much for that warm welcome everybody, thank you for your introduction Parm, and greetings to all of my Parliamentary colleagues who are here, Minister Kenney, Member of Parliament Nina Grewal, Member of Parliament Brad Butt, Kyle Seeback, Devinder Shory, Patrick Brown, Minister Tim Uppal, Minister Bal Gosal, MP Bob Dechert, and Minister Peter MacKay, thank you all for being here with us tonight.

“And thank you to Hunsdeep and Prita for getting us started today.

“Friends, today for Sikhs, is a day of thanksgiving.

“Unfortunately friends, today is also something else in another part of the world not very far from here.

“It is a day of sadness and of shock, and I’d just like to spend a moment on that.

“Colleagues and friends, I know we are all very saddened and shocked about what has transpired today in Boston, by these violent incidents that have occurred.

“Obviously we condemn categorically this kind of violent attack upon innocent people.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all of those who have been injured or killed and with their families, and as Canadians of course we use this moment to express our complete solidarity with our American neighbours and friends.

“Friends, as I said, for Sikhs today is a day of thanksgiving, this is not only the start of the New Year, but also the anniversary of the day in 1699 when Guru Gobind Singh created the Khalsa  – the body of baptized Sikhs.

“Since that day, Sikhism has grown to become one of the world’s great religions.

“And, as so many in Canada and around the world celebrate Vaisakhi, I am thankful that our country is home to one of the largest and most dynamic Sikh populations outside of India.

“I am reminded, too, that Canada is also home to the oldest standing Sikh temple in North America.

“That is, of course, the Gur Sikh temple in Abbotsford, British Columbia.
 
“Just two years ago, I was privileged to visit it.

“It stands today as a National Historic Site, and as a reminder to all Canadians, that Sikhs have been a vital part of Canadian society for more than 100 years.

“You know, as Prime Minister, I have had the privilege to visit many countries around the world.

“Two of my most memorable trips were to India.

“And, particularly, the visits to two of Sikhism’s holiest shrines.

“Last year Laureen and I toured the Gurdwara Sri Keshgarh Sahib.

“We were also very fortunate to see the stunning Khalsa Heritage Centre, designed by Canadian Architect Moshe Safdie.

“And, of course, in 2009, we visited the Harmandir Sahib ¬- the Golden Temple - the spiritual home of Sikhs around the world.

“There, we experienced first hand the stunning beauty of the temple as well as the
energy and devotion of the people.

“I was struck by their genuine warmth, and their openness.

“In fact, the welcoming spirit we experienced in Amritsar is so highly regarded by Sikhs, that it is actually built into the architecture there.

“That’s why there are four gates at the Golden Temple, each facing a different point on the compass.

“Each symbolizing the openness of the Sikh religion to all others around the world.

“And friends,this is just one of the values Sikhs have brought to Canada.

“Values like a deep commitment to compassion, justice for all and equality for everyone, ¬regardless of race, creed or gender.

“These are the values that help make the Sikh community so strong.

“They are also the values that make Canada the best country in the world, the best place anywhere to live, work and raise a family.

“So Vaisakhi is an occasion for all of us to celebrate the success of the Sikh community, here in Canada and around the world.

“It is a time for all Canadians to celebrate as well, the contribution Indo-Canadians
from all walks of life make to this great nation from coast to coast to coast.

“So, as Prime Minister, and on behalf of all Canadians, let me wish every one of you
a Happy Vaisakhi.”

It’s wonderful to be here and have you as a colleague in the Parliament of Canada.

Greetings to my other colleagues from Parliament as well, to Members of Parliament Michelle Rempel, Devinder Shory, to Rob Anders, to Senator Doug Black as well.

Great to have all of you here today.

Representatives of the Alberta government, Ministers Hancock, Dennis, your Worship, Mayor Nenshi, Bonnie Johnston, CEO of this institution, also my greetings to co-chairs of the CAC board, John Dilward, to Deborah Moral, and to all the partner organizations as well.

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, it is really an honour to be here today at the Calgary Child Advocacy Centre.

I’ve had a chance to look around this morning, and it is a wonderful facility.

I can see that you’re doing great work here, and I want to give my congratulations to everyone.

Although, you know, I do have to confess that I really wish – I think we all wish that it were not necessary to have a centre like this.

Sadly, even here the world is not always a safe place for children.

We may hear about criminal acts every day, but I think still for all of us, every story about a child being abused is still shocking, and it is heartbreaking.

This morning I’ve heard some of those stories, stories that no one, especially a child, should ever have to endure or should ever have to tell.

Unfortunately, far too many Canadian families fall victim to crime, and too many have to deal with the justice system.

A justice system that has been too often far more concerned with the welfare of criminals than the well being of their innocent victims.

So before I get to today’s announcement, let me reiterate the promise our government made when we were first elected, and it is simply this: we will not rest until Canada’s streets and communities are as safe from crime as they possibly can be, and until the Canadian justice system puts the rights of victims where they belong.

And they belong ahead of the rights of criminals.

Friends, child advocacy centres like this one do much to advance this work.

That’s why our Conservative government has already funded 20 child advocacy centre projects in communities across Canada.

Those who heard me say French will say that I said 15.

We’ll stick with the 20.

Several other projects are underway.

Without these centres, an abused child could be obliged to visit multiple locations and see many different professionals before getting the help they need.

This adds unnecessary trauma to an already very stressful situation.

That is to say, by putting a number of agencies under the same roof, this centre will be a one-stop shop for abused children in need.

And so a child need no longer tell their sad story multiple times.

Once will be enough.

This leads to better evidence and better evidence results in better conviction rates.

By adopting a coordinated and collaborative approach to meeting the needs of children and families, this centre will ensure that the victims of crime don’t also feel like victims of the justice system.

Friends, this really is truly, the people who work here are truly doing God’s work.

Please join me in thanking all the professionals here today for the work they do with suffering children.

Now, there is someone else here today to whom I want to express my personal gratitude.

Indeed, he merits the gratitude of the entire nation, and that is Sheldon Kennedy.

Many of you know Sheldon’s story, how he bravely came forward after being sexually abused at the hands of a man he and many others trusted, hockey coach and mentor Graham James.

Sheldon knows firsthand the horrors of such abuse, and he has worked tirelessly to prevent it.

His efforts to establish this centre have been no less determined, and as a result, countless children will benefit.

Now, ladies and gentlemen, today I have the great honour as Prime Minister and as a proud Calgarian.

I’m very pleased to announce officially that from now on, this centre will be known as the Sheldon Kennedy Child Advocacy Centre.

This centre will stand as s permanent reminder to Sheldon’s boundless commitment to helping children who have been the victims of abuse.

What a great way to honour such an outstanding Canadian.

Please join me one more time in giving Sheldon a well-deserved thanks for everything he’s done.

Now, sadly, Sheldon’s work, your work, those who work here, our work, is far from over.

Each  year in Canada there are more than 200,000 investigations into child abuse and neglect, and sexual offences against children including child pornography are noticeably on the rise.

These are some of the fastest growing categories of crime in this country.

In 2009, last statistics, more than half of all victims of sexual offences in Canada were children under 17.

More than half. And that is just those crimes reported to the police.

We know many are not reported.

Our Government is working hard to change this.

That’s why we’ve introduced mandatory minimum sentences for criminals who commit sexual offences against children.

We have stopped the shameful practice of house arrest for serious and violent crimes.

We have eliminated the faint hope clause, which forced victims to unnecessarily relive terrible events.

And to give victims a stronger voice, we’ve established the federal ombudsman for victims of crime.

Ladies and gentlemen, we must be tough on this sort of crime.

No other position is acceptable.

We know the damage that crime does to Canadian families, to Canadian children.

We have made a promise to Canadians that Canadians expect us to honour, and we are far from finished.

We are committed to taking further steps to tackling crime, by making sure violent criminals are held accountable for their acts.

Later this year, we will introduce comprehensive legislation to further crack down on criminals who commit sexual offences against children.

We will take concrete action to make bail and extradition regimes more effective so that dangerous criminals stay behind bars, and we will also bring forward legislation to implement a victims’ bill of rights.

This will be a crucial act to strengthen and entrench our commitment to victims of crime, by entrenching their rights into a single law at the federal level, and it will change the balance of our justice system, so that victims are no longer an afterthought.

Now, friends, I know that the professionals and volunteers here at the Sheldon Kennedy Child Advocacy Centre will not rest until child abusers are stopped.

And I promise you that our Government will be behind them every step of the way, making our streets and communities safer for Canadians, for all Canadians, young and old.

Thank you.

Thank you, Rod and Daniel. 

Senator Demers, representing our Speaker, Speaker Kinsella, Speaker Scheer, President of Hockey Canada Bob Nicholson, Chairman of Hockey Canada Mike Bruni, Order of Hockey inductee Cassie Campbell-Pascal, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, I just want to take a moment before I begin. 

I would just like to congratulate our national women’s hockey team and wish it the best of luck.

To congratulate and extend my best wishes to our national women’s hockey team. 

All of us, all Canadians from coast to coast to coast are very proud of our women’s hockey program. 

As you  move into the semi-finals this evening, and hopefully into the finals tomorrow, know that the entire country is cheering you on. 

Let’s give our best to our national hockey team. 

I’d also like to offer my sincere thanks to Bob, to Mike, and everybody at Hockey Canada and the Hockey Canada Foundation for all of your good work in organizing today’s event. 

We’re delighted you’re able to hold it here in our national Parliament Buildings in the national capital. 

This important initiative provides Canadians with yet another opportunity to recognize and celebrate leaders in our sport, true heroes both on and off the ice. 

Friends, hockey is greatly loved by Canadians. 

It is, after all, officially our national winter game. 

Less than a year ago, as was mentioned, it was my great pleasure to say a few words about the first five members of the Order of hockey in Canada. And today I’m delighted to have the opportunity to speak briefly about the next class of distinguished honourees. 

These three men are not only ambassadors for our sport, they are ambassadors for Canada and for Canadian values. 

Our first  honourees spent a quarter of a century playing in the NHL. 

He is second all-time in points. 

He won six Stanley Cups. 

And to this day, he remains the only person in history to captain two different teams to a Stanley Cup championship. 

On peut affirmer avec certitude, avec une grande certitude, que personne n’a pratiqué ce sport tout à fait comme Marc Messier. 

He is considered not just one of the greatest hockey players, but one of the greatest hockey leaders this country has ever produced. 

Congratulations to Marc Messier. 

Our next honouree has travelled the world over to capture medals and glory for Canada. 

While serving as the head coach of our national junior team, he led Canada to our first ever World Junior goal, establishing the tradition of excellence in our junior hockey program that all Canadians take such pride in today. 

He has coached at world championships, at the Olympics and in the NHL. 

In fact, some of the most talented hockey players of our time have benefited from his insight, experience and instruction. 

He is a Member of the Order of Canada, and now he is a member of the Order of Hockey in Canada. 

Congratulations to Dave King. 

If you want proof of our final honouree’s lasting legacy, consider this. 

Although he hasn’t played competitive hockey in more than 30 years, he remains one of the best recognized and most admired hockey players of all time by all generations. 

He scored for Canada when it mattered most, not once, not twice, but three times; however, it was his third game-winning goal in game eight – everyone alive then knows what I’m talking about – 34 seconds left, rallying the entire country in a unity it has rarely experienced before or since. 

Ladies and gentlemen, our third honouree, le légende, the legendary Paul Henderson. 

Let me also point out that Paul was recently appointed to the Order of Canada, and I know that I speak on behalf of all Canadians when I say that your appointment, Paul, was long overdue, and is very well deserved. 

Congratulations. 

Friends, the great Canadian writer Roch Carrier perhaps put it best in his beloved children’s story “The Hockey Sweater” when he wrote: “Real battles are won on the rink. Real strength appears on the rink. Real leaders show themselves on the rink.” 

Et je cite, « Les vrais combats se gagnent sur la patinoire. La vraie force apparaît sur la patinoire. Les vrais chefs se manifestent sur la patinoire. » 

Canadians understand what he meant. On rinks in Canada and around the world, our three honourees demonstrated real perseverance, real courage, and real leadership. 

They demonstrated the very best of what it means to be Canadian, the best of which younger generations can aspire on and off the ice. 

We honour them today because they have influenced our national winter game and our country for the better. 

And in their own unique way, they have made each of us even more proud to be Canadian. 

Félicitations à chacun d’entre vous, et merci à tous et à toutes de vous être joints à nous. 

Congratulations once again to each and every one of you, and thank you, everybody, for joining us here today.

“Lieutenant Governor Ethell, Premier Redford, Mayor Nenshi, the Right Honourable Jean Chrétien, so many guests who are with us today, former premiers from all across the country, friends and colleagues of Ralph Klein, ladies and gentlemen.

“And, especially, Colleen and all members of the family.

“You are in the thoughts and prayers of Laureen, myself and our family, and I am sure you know, in the thoughts and prayers of so many other families not just represented here today, but right across this great province of Alberta that Premier Klein served so well.

“I think we all have a little bit of understanding of what a difficult time this has truly been for you and for the family.

“May God give you peace and comfort.

“It is of Ralph Klein’s public service, his political career, that I wish to speak.

“You know, his story, his accomplishments, speak obviously of the great opportunities that are offered to us as citizens of this country and of this province and of this city.

“But past all of the stories, some humorous some outrageous, what we should not forget and never look past is the truly remarkable gifts and accomplishments of Ralph Klein as a person and as a leader.

“We all know how an outspoken television reporter ran for mayor and, to everyone’s astonishment, won handsomely.

“In fact, he was mayor of Calgary, when I first came here.

“He became mayor just shortly before I arrived, and I have to tell you that after living in Toronto and living in Edmonton, having Ralph at City Hall was a bit of a culture shock.

“I mean that in a good way.

“Because, as Mayor Nenshi said, as mayor, Ralph Klein did great things that really launched the modern era of this city: the Light Rail Transit System that so many people now take for granted, the Saddledome which was built on his watch, so many other major works, and, of course, the 1988 Olympics, where Ralph welcomed the world without any airs but with great comfort and great affability.

“We also know how, after coming out and forcefully backing the Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement during the 1988 election, he then moved into provincial politics and, in rapid succession, and again, to everyone’s astonishment, became a cabinet minister of course, and then the premier of the province.

“And, in that office, he also established a legacy that history is going to treat very kindly.

“Does everyone remember Ralph’s so-called ‘radical’ ideas?

“That the best decisions are not made in government office towers.

“That taxpayers make the best choices about how to spend their own money.

“That governments and citizens should face problems head on, and his well-founded belief that, as he put it: ‘the strength of this country lies in the strength of the provinces’.

“Remember too his so-called ‘radical’ idea that Alberta could be an energy superpower?

“And that Alberta’s energy would mean prosperity for all of Canada?

“Twenty years ago, those ideas were often considered radical indeed.

“But today, the wisdom of Ralph’s ideas is now widely, almost universally, accepted.

“And, never forget it, Ralph Klein was especially right about that.

“Alberta’s energy industry does bring prosperity to all of this great country.

“Ladies and gentlemen, once Ralph Klein’s ideas were well-planted, their fruits became his ‘miracle on the prairies’.

“It amused some to call him ‘King Ralph’.

“Perhaps it amused him too.

“’Welcome to Ralph’s world,’ he famously declared, the election night that he won a massive 74 out of Alberta’s 83 seats.

“But, the love that Albertans had for Ralph Klein - and I don’t think love is too strong a word – was based on something other than the extraordinarily successful management of Alberta’s finances.

“Albertans understood that this was a man, that this was a leader, who never forgot where he came from.

“Neither did he forget the people he served.

“A man equally at home in the Petroleum Club, or in the St. Louis Hotel, well maybe not quite equally, Ralph had, as many have noted, many opponents, but precious few enemies.

“He was affable, straightforward, and had a gift for saying what ordinary people were thinking, often in a way that made us smile.

“Asked about reducing the deficit, saving money by cutting into some very popular services and programs, he said, ‘well, you’ve got to hunt where the ducks are’.

“He knew every part of Alberta.

“He knew us.

“And Albertans knew and respected Ralph Klein for his honesty and for his principles.

“Above all, Albertans responded to his vision of Alberta as a rock of Confederation, a vision he brought to life, the vision of a mature, forward-looking Alberta, yet one that never lost sight of the rugged values on which it had been born and raised.

“That was Ralph.

“Agree or disagree, you knew where he stood.

“And so, to Albertans, he was ‘King Ralph’ – I love that phrase, you know people outside Alberta don’t get that – he was ‘King Ralph’ only in the sense of being a king-size character, but in personality and demeanor he was really to us ‘Citizen Ralph’.

“He said what he would do, and then he did what he said.

“I admire that.

“We all admire that.

“And, when he was installed last November, by the Governor General as an Officer of the Order of Canada, it was welcomed with great affection by all of his fellow Albertans.

“Ladies and gentlemen, let me just finish with this.

“Ralph Klein was faithful and true, true to himself, faithful to the people of this province, and, always, a proud Canadian.

“So, to ‘Citizen Ralph,’ we say: hail and farewell!

“Your fellow Calgarians, Albertans and Canadians will always remember you.”

Good morning, everyone.

Thank you, Lisa, for that kind introduction.

Special greetings to Ambassador Zhang.

Thank you for coming from Ottawa to join us, Ambassador.

I also want to welcome all of my colleagues from both houses of the Parliament of Canada.

Greetings also to Mayor Rob Ford and to John Tracogna of the Toronto Zoo.

Pleased to have you with us.

Distinguished guests, mesdames et messieurs, ladies and gentlemen, just over a year ago, Laureen and I were in Chongqing, one of the world’s largest and fastest growing cities.

You might have seen the pictures of what happened there.

We had the opportunity, the very rare opportunity, to actually hold a panda cub.

They do wriggle.

They’re shy.

Just ask Laureen.

For us, that was certainly one of the highlights of our time in China.

While at that zoo, it was my great pleasure to witness the signing of a ten-year agreement, an agreement between the Toronto Zoo, the Calgary Zoo and Chinese authorities for the visit of two giant pandas to Canada.

As Lisa just said, it has been more than 20 years since Canadians have had the opportunity to see giant pandas in our zoos.

And friends, today our wait is almost over.

I am truly delighted to officially welcome to Canada, and I know we all are, to officially welcome to Canada a pair of China’s national treasures: Er Shun and Da Mao. Give them a big hand.

These giant pandas will spend five years each at the Toronto and Calgary zoos, where they will undoubtedly delight Canadians young and old throughout the duration of their stay.

I know that our family’s looking forward to visiting Er Shun and Da Mao at the Toronto Zoo as soon as they’ve adjusted to their new life in Canada.

I would be remiss if I did not offer my sincere thanks to our partners in this initiative.

First, to FedEx Express Canada, who delivered this precious cargo safely, on time, and as we can see behind us, in style.

FedEx has also committed to regularly ship the bamboo that these pandas require to thrive in Canada over the next ten years.

Now, when you consider that a giant panda can eat up to 100 pounds of bamboo every day, their commitment is indeed a significant one.

So give a big hand to FedEx for that.

I also wish to extend my thanks to the Toronto and Calgary Zoos as well as their many generous supporters.

Under the terms of the agreement, both zoos will invest in panda research and conservation initiatives.

These efforts will make it possible for future generations to experience these magnificent animals up close and in person.

So congratulations to the Toronto Zoo and the Calgary Zoo for making this happen.

Lastly, I want to offer my sincere thanks to the government of China for sharing these two pandas, symbols of peace and friendship, with all Canadians.

Canada and China are strategic partners.

We enjoy an active economic relationship and strong people-to-people ties.

Over the coming years, these pandas will help us learn more about one another, while serving as a reminder of our deepening relationship, a relationship based on mutual respect and growing collaboration.

So through you, Ambassador, thank you to the government of China for this wonderful gesture.

It is truly an honour to be entrusted with their care.

Once again, everybody, thank you for being here.

It’s a great day.

Thank you.

RT. HON. STEPHEN HARPER: Well, it’s great to have...

CHRIS HADFIELD: I hear you loud and clear. I hope you can hear me as well also. Thank you.

RT. HON. STEPHEN HARPER: I can hear you and I can see you. It’s a great picture. It’s great to hear you.

Commander, I just want to congratulate you on this historic achievement. You’re the first Canadian ever to command the International Space Station. We’re all very proud of you here.

CHRIS HADFIELD: Thank you, Prime Minister. Thank you very much. After, gosh, 35 years of service to my country and to my government, I am so incredibly proud to have the chance to do this now. I get to go from Vancouver Island and see the Arctic and see the Maritimes in ten minutes, coast to coast. And it just fills me with pride. And also, as a result of technology, I get to link with Canadians coast to coast, of all ages. And I ask every Canadian, from the machine shops that helped build this place, to the software labs, to the inventors and the creative minds that made all this possible, when they look up and see the point of light that is the International Space Station, all Canadians should take pride in what we can do together.

RT. HON. STEPHEN HARPER: Well, it must be a tremendous experience. I know as I fly across the country, I’m always amazed how big it is, how empty most of it is, but for you to be able to see it in ten minutes is just, is really an incredible experience we can only dream about. Now, Commander, I have a few questions myself, but we have a lot of kids here who want to ask questions, so I’m going to go straight to them first, because I know we don’t have a lot of time today. We have a very brief hookup. So let me begin with Emerson Bartel, Children’s Wish Foundation, is going to ask a question.

EMERSEN BARTEL (Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada): Is there anything that you fear in space, or something that makes you uncomfortable?

CHRIS HADFIELD: Emerson, I’m afraid when I don’t have a plan, when I can’t get ready for something. You know, there are always things happening, and some of them are scary if you’re not ready. So what I always try and do is no matter what’s happening, whether it’s something simple or something dangerous, I prepare for it, I think about it, I visualize what I can do, and therefore what I’m going to do. And then no matter what it is, what I’m facing, it makes me feel better about it, and it stops me being afraid of it. And that’s whether I’m piloting a spaceship, or commanding the space station, or speaking with the Prime Minister of Canada, or talking with you, Emerson. I just try and get ready, and then I’m not afraid.

LAUREEN HARPER (Prime Minister’s Wife): It’s Laureen Harper here. I would like to introduce Robbie Passmore Waugh of the Children’s Wish Foundation to ask the commander a question. Come on up, Robbie.

ROBBIE PASSMORE WAUGH (Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada): What do you do when you get sick in space?

CHRIS HADFIELD: Thank you, Robbie. We try not to get sick, of course. You can’t catch a cold up here, because there’s no one to catch a cold from. But everybody on board is trained as an emergency medical technician. So I can do all basic medicine. I’ve worked in a hospital in the emergency room taking care of people as they come in with all different injuries, so I really understand the basics that I need to know. Right here under my feet is our emergency medical kit and pharmacy. Behind me is like a stretcher that if someone got sick, we could strap them to that stretcher. And then we also on board with our crew, we have Dr. Tom Marshburn, a medical doctor. And so Dr. Tom could take care of each of us. But if Tom got sick, then I’d be taking care of Tom. So we’re ready for it. We try not to get sick. We’re careful. But if we need to, we’re ready to take care of each other medically.

RT. HON. STEPHEN HARPER: Good job, Robbie. The next question will be presented by Marie de Grandpré. Marie will ask a question on behalf of the Centennial Public School in Kitchener.

MARIE DE GRANPRÉ: Why is it so important for Canada to be a partner in the International Space Station program?

CHRIS HADFIELD: That's a good question. It's important for some different goals. First of all, it's a unique laboratory, a laboratory in space. And so we have the opportunity with this international station to conduct experiments that are impossible on Earth. So it's an opportunity for our researchers and our universities. But I also think it's important as a source of inspiration for young Canadians, to have something that is almost impossible, and just at the frontier of possibility. And with that, it's like a dream come true. And as young Canadians, you need to dream. And with an opportunity like this, with a laboratory like this, that's another thing that's important for Canada and for Canadians, Canadian men and women.

LAUREEN HARPER: I would like to introduce Darcy McRae of Children’s Wish to ask Commander Hadfield a question on behalf of Henry, who’s 12, from Wellington Hull Academy in Guelph, Ontario.

DARCY MCRAE (Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada): Good afternoon, Commander Hadfield. Here’s a question. Does Canada look like you would expect it to from space? Does it look just like it does on a map, or is there anything that is really unique or stands out from space?

CHRIS HADFIELD: Thank you for the question. When you’re going this fast and seeing so much of it, when I’m overhead of Winnipeg, I can still look back and I can see the Rockies, and I can see all the way to Ottawa, basically, and to be able to see the country that way as we race across, what is different than I expected was the size of it. We live in an enormous, very rich land. So much opportunity and capability for each of us. But then as you come across, especially at night, each of the places where we gather together, the cities and the towns, even the farms, they show up as little places of warmth, of little pockets of light. And as I travel across the Prairies and then come around the bigger cities, of course, the provincial capitals and all around Lake Ontario and Ottawa and Montreal, you can see the level of activity. It just strikes you, the huge, vast capability, the raw capability of our country, and then the way that we’re using it. And then when you come... the last place I see in Canada always is the Maritimes, coming across Cape Breton and Newfoundland, and that solid, rugged rock that is our east coast. It’s a great way every time to wave farewell to Canada ‘til we come around the world again. It just warms my heart every time to see the potential of our country and to see the way that we live there together.

RT. HON. STEPHEN HARPER: Thank you. We will now have a question from Thomas Bérubé. Thomas will ask a question on behalf of the twins Evan and Alexa from the Central Public School in Dundas, Ontario.

THOMAS BÉRUBÉ: I have two questions. Which country is the most colourful seen from space? Do you miss your own bed?

CHRIS HADFIELD: Yes, that's two questions. For the first, for me, it's the Bahamas, the Bahamas islands. That's because of the corral reefs. The colours of that are incredible. All the blues, all the blues that exist. It's like an underwater rainbow, it catches your eye every time. It's incredible to see that. It's brilliant. And for the second question, sleeping here in space, it's… I don't need a bed or a pillow. It's so comfortable. You can be totally relaxed, totally, every muscle, and for me, in my opinion, it's better than being in my bedroom at home or on Earth. It's a marvellous place to sleep.

LAUREEN HARPER: I would like to introduce Markus Gandia to ask Commander Hadfield a question on behalf of the grade 3 class at South Poplar Elementary, Abbotsford, British Columbia.

MARKUS GANDIA: Hello, Commander Hadfield. Hello, Commander Hadfield. Here’s my question. What advice do you have for the aspiring astronauts in our class and across the country?

CHRIS HADFIELD: Ok, three things. Number one is education. And I don’t just mean reading and, you know, what you’re told in school. Education is learning things. Education is desiring to new know things... to know new things every single day, to always try and understand what’s going on around you. Constantly educate yourself. Number two is take care of your body. You only get one. You know, think about what you’re eating when you eat. You choose everything that you eat. And exercise your body. Take the stairs. Carry things. Don’t drag things. Exercise your body. It doesn’t take much; just keep yourself in shape. And then the third is make decisions. Choose things. And at first, you may not make all good decisions, but decision making is a skill, and you can learn it and get better at it, and the more decisions you make, the better you will be at making them. And with those three things, education, a healthy body, and the ability to make good decisions, you will succeed no matter what you do in life, including maybe have a chance to fly in space.

RT. HON. STEPHEN HARPER: That does sound like good advice for a lot of things.

Now, Commander, I'd like to introduce Alexander Brown. He'll ask a question on behalf of Ezra, a five-year-old boy, from the Elizabeth Ziegler School in Waterloo, Ontario.

ALEXANDER BROWN: Can you see the planet turn?

CHRIS HADFIELD: Not directly to see the planet turn. That's because it turns only twice a day, you know, every 24 hours. But we're in orbit every 90 minutes, and so each orbit, because of the Earth turning, there's a part, a place, a country, a continent of the Earth that's different each time, just because the Earth is turning. And so not directly, but indirectly, yes, you can see the Earth turn, the Earth turning from the Space Station.

LAUREEN HARPER: I would like to introduce Alexis Hilier to ask Commander Hadfield a question on behalf of Colin, grade six, Scott Bateman Middle School.

ALEXIS HILIER: Hi, Commander Hadfield. Is there turbulence in space, and can you feel it like in an airplane?

CHRIS HADFIELD: There is no turbulence up here at all. It is smoother than silk. It’s like if you’ve ever been skating on perfect, new ice, just after the Zamboni goes, and everything... you just slide across the ice, and you don’t feel even a ripple. Or maybe down a perfect slide, nice and wet, where you just, everything’s just beautifully smooth. It’s like that. There’s never a bump. You can float and fly and it’s sort of like magic. But no, it’s perfectly comfortable. You should try it. It’s great.

RT. HON. STEPHEN HARPER: I’d like to introduce, Commander, Matthew Brotten. Matthew is bringing us a question on behalf of a Twitter account, Stefphypoo446. I’m going to assume that’s not a real name. She is in Centennial Public School, also in Waterloo, Ontario. Matthew.

MATTHEW BROTTEN: Is it possible to land on Mars in the near future?

CHRIS HADFIELD: Steffie and Matthew, yes. In fact, of course, I’m sure as you know, Canada is already on Mars. We have scientific experiments, scientific hardware that was built by Canadians, smart, educated engineers and scientists, that is helping us to understand Mars right now. Because you can’t understand the human body by looking at just one person. You can’t understand planets just by looking at one. By understanding the history of Mars and the history of the Earth and the others, we can really start to get a feel for what’s in store for Earth itself. But I think probably your question is “Could people go to Mars?” And yes, things we’ve learned on the space station, how to stay in space for months and months, how to build things, what equipment to build it out of, yes. But right now it’s sort of like sailing around the world hundreds of years ago, or flying across the Atlantic a hundred years ago. It’s just barely possible, but it would be very risky, and so therefore quite expensive. And I think what we need to do is invent some more things. We need Canadians like you to come up with great inventions like the CanadArm or like Micro Flow, which is a great Canadian experiment that I’m working on, jut came up last week. We need inventions that will make travel to Mars safer and faster, energy sources and engines. So yes, we could do it if we had to, and I’m sure we’ll do it in the future. It’s just a matter of things that invent. We’re limited just by our own imagination and creativity.

LAUREEN HARPER: I would like to introduce Ava Gandia to ask Commander Hadfield a question on behalf of Jacqueline from York House School, Vancouver, British Columbia.
AVA GANDIA: Hello, Commander Hadfield. My first question is what has been the most interesting part of being an astronaut and going to space? And have you had any interesting experiences that you will never forget?

CHRIS HADFIELD: I think I can answer both those questions with the same answer, actually. And being inside a spaceship is wonderful, magnificent, being weightless, doing all of this experiments, being here with a great group of people, wonderful, motivated, humble people. But the most magnificent experience was going outside, putting on the big, white spacesuit and walking in space. And the reason is not only was I out there building CanadArm 2 and bolting it together and bringing Canada’s robot arm to life, but I was alone with these two hands and these two eyes, in between the world on one side, turning in all of its colours, and the universe on the other, in all of its absolutely fundamental blackness, and the rest of everything. And I was there holding on to this vehicle, this space station with one hand, one of the first humans to ever be able to see our world that way, and to get a sense of the perspective myself. It’ll be with me always. It is a magnificent experience to see the world and to see the universe that way. I was the first Canadian to ever do it, but I’m not the last. I hope more Canadians, including you, get a chance to see the world that way. It changes how you think.

RT. HON. STEPHEN HARPER: Thank you, Commander. That was our last student question, and I see your colleagues, David St-Jacques and Jeremy Hanson have appeared, which means we’re about due to wrap this up. So I know we all want to thank you for spending time with us.

You have the spirit of the pioneers who explored our country. It's a new… new era, but it is still exploration for our country. We are very proud of you, and we congratulate you and wish you great success, and good luck.

Again, Commander, I’m here with all these kids and parents. I just want to say that you represent the kind of spirit we had in the explorers who went out and found our country and built our country, and you’re carrying that into a modern age. We’re all very proud of you. We wish you good luck and success. We have all these kids who’ve done such a great job asking the questions, other children who are with them. We have your parents here, so let’s all together give Commander Hadfield one more big cheer. And that’s our sign-off. See you back on Earth.

NASA: Station, this is Houston ACR. That concludes the event. Thank you.

And I thank you for your kind words at last night’s dinner.

Once again, Prime Minister, it’s our pleasure to welcome you on this, your first official visit to Canada in your present capacity.

As you know, the ties between Canada and France are deep, more than four centuries deep, in fact.

France is one of our most longstanding and important allies and partners in the entire world. And all Canadians recognize and honour France as one of our founding nations.

We share a language.

We subscribe to the same great ideals of freedom, democracy and human fairness. We have forged ties as comrades in arms.

Our two great nations are allies when it comes to commercial partnerships, and we are old friends.

This relationship between France and Canada during the economic challenges of the last five years has been a source of strength for both of our countries.

We are working together on issues affecting the economy and security, including recent situations in Lybia and Mali, where France’s leadership remains crucial.

And also within NATO, in Afghanistan and of course as part of the efforts to rebuild Haiti.

And thanks to our mutual efforts within the Francophonie, we are striving to promote our common values and mission.

Thus, France is an important ally of Canada’s, in many ways.

We’ve held fruitful and constructive discussions are described in greater detail in our joint statement.

Let me, however, draw attention to some particular points.

Trade and investment between France and Canada are solid.

But deepening our economic relations could make a considerable improvement in the lives of our citizens.

That is why our trade talks with the European Union are so important at this time.

And I know that we are both committed, remain committed to concluding a comprehensive economic and trade agreement between the European Union and Canada as soon as possible.

I am also pleased to announce a series of measures that will further strengthen the excellent relations between our two countries.

A few moments ago an agreement was signed that will give young people from France and Canada more opportunity to travel and to work in each others’ countries.

Also signed today is a revised social security agreement that will ensure that people from France and Canada receive the pension benefits to which they are entitled for their time spent working or living abroad.

Science and technology drive productivity and competitiveness.

I’m also pleased to announce a joint plan of action between France and Canada for science and technology, innovation and entrepreneurship.

This plan will enhance student and scientist mobility and strengthen existing partnerships among industry, government and academe.

And on the environment today, we also signed a collaborative research agreement aimed at reducing emissions.

Finally I’m pleased to tell you that our two countries have agreed to cooperate on our commemoration of the great conflicts of the 20^th century.

The First and Second World Wars were events of crucial importance, both for France and for Canada, particularly for our development as a fully independent nation.

As such, they will be towering landmarks on a rich road of celebration that will take us to the 150^th anniversary of Confederation in 2017.

Mr. Prime Minister, we hope you enjoy your stay with us, and extend our best wishes for productive visits to Toronto, Montreal and Quebec City.

Your visit speaks to the close ties that exist between our two countries.

Canadians attach special importance and significance to these longstanding ties.

Once again, I wish you a warm welcome.

Prime Minister, Madame Héroux, honoured members of the French delegation, Parliamentary colleagues, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.

It is indeed a great pleasure to be here this evening in such good company to share conversation over a good meal.

It is a family meal, really.

For, the ties between Canada and France are deep and lasting.

We are allies.

Trading partners and, of course, friends,

In fact, we’re a part of the same family.

Separated by time and space, perhaps.

But family nonetheless.

Our branch of the family – your Canadian cousins – is spread all over this vast land.

From Acadia and the Brayon heartland of Madawaska in the east to Québec, where the first French-Canadian Prime Minister, Sir Wilfrid Laurier, is from, to the verdant farms and thick forests of Franco-Ontario and to the dynamic French communities of the West and the Great Canadian North, more than seven million Canadians call French their mother tongue.

And, let’s not forget the tens of thousands of new Canadians from all over
the Francophonie  who chose Canada because they can live here – and feel at home here – in their mother tongue.

Add to these numbers the millions more Canadians of all other backgrounds who have adopted French as their second language. 

They are also part of the family, or in-laws at least.

Just a few years ago Canadians everywhere celebrated the 400th anniversary of the founding of Quebec by our first governor, Samuel de Champlain, which was in fact the foundation of the Canadian country, founded in French.

The language, the culture, the institutions, these links continue to unite us with the great family of the Francophonie.

Yes, we’ve had our differences.

All families do.

But as we say in English, when push comes to shove, we are there for each other.

We need look no further than the great monument at Vimy, or the plaque in the little park in Dieppe that commemorates the Canadians who fell there.

It reads in part, and I quote, “On the beaches of Dieppe, our Canadian cousins mark with their blood the road to our final liberation”.

This is what families do.

Today, our two nations work closely together on the world stage, promoting our shared values and vision for a democratic and peaceful world, a world free and just, defined by open markets and minds.

In Afghanistan and, more recently in Mali, we have linked efforts to promote freedom and protect the innocent from the tyranny of terror that has cast a long shadow over this new century.

In countless other multilateral arenas we work together to achieve our mutual goals.

And, we are good business partners.

I am happy to see that such a strong representation from the business community here tonight.

Recent numbers put trade between Canada and France at close to nine-billion dollars annually.

French companies combined have more than $15 billion invested in Canada, including a significant presence in the Alberta oil sands.

But I believe we can do even better.

The European Union is Canada’s second largest trading partner after the United States.

A Canada-EU joint economic study has shown that a commercial agreement would increase two-way trade by 20 percent.

So there is much room to expand the France-Canada economic relationship directly and indirectly through wider trade with Europe.

That is why Canada remains determined to conclude a comprehensive economic and trade agreement with the European Union.

Ladies and gentleman, as one prime minister to another, as one cousin to another and on behalf of all Canadians, allow me to raise a glass to another 400 years of friendship and to another 400 years of family gatherings like this one tonight.

To France, to Canada.

Good afternoon.

Thank you for that very, very warm territorial welcome.

I want to begin by offering my sincere thanks to our gracious host today, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, the Honourable Jackie Jacobson.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for inviting us to use this magnificent building for today’s historic announcement.

I want to also thank Bernard for his kind introduction.

And before I go any further, I want to take this opportunity to thank you, Bernard, not just for your many years of service to Canadians; I know we all want to congratulate you on your recent appointment as Canada’s new Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development.

Congratulations.

My thanks also to today’s master of ceremonies.

Minister Aglukkaq is very busy.

She was just telling me that she first worked as a page in this legislature many, many years ago.

She is now Canada’s Minister of Health, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and Minister for the Arctic Council, which Canada chairs this year.

Of course, she does all of that on top of representing Nunavut, our geographically largest federal riding by far, in the House of Commons, so we all thank you, Leona, for being here today and for all that you do for Canada’s North.

Commissioner Tukeru, Premier McLeod, members of the territorial government and assembly, representatives of Aboriginal governments, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, mesdames et messieurs.
This is in fact my sixth time in Yellowknife, a city that so perfectly captures the imagination and the spirit of our North, a booming city, a city with its best days yet to come.

I always feel optimistic about Canada’s future whenever I visit here, so it really is wonderful to be back.

Since becoming Prime Minister in 2006, it’s been my privilege to spend a great deal of time North of 60 in cities such as Yellowknife and Whitehorse, Iqaluit and Dawson City, Norman Wells and Cambridge Bay, even up to Alert one year.

And during each tour, I note the profound and positive changes taking place across Canada’s North, changes that our government has championed, changes that will make a difference in the lives of Northerners, changes that will inspire a generation of Canadians.

Ours is the first government in half a century, the first since that of Prime Minister Diefenbaker, to put the North at the top of Canada’s agenda, because our Government’s vision is indeed to see a Canada, a new Canada, a Canada of the North, as Diefenbaker put it all those years ago.

Canada is a northern country.

We are a northern people.

Our North beckons, it challenges, it inspires and as I’ve said before, the North is Canada’s call to greatness.

That’s why our Government created a Northern Strategy built on four pillars: exercising Canada’s sovereignty, promoting social and economic development, protecting our environmental heritage, and improving and devolving Northern governance.

It’s on the last point that we join together today.

Our Government believes that the opportunities and challenges here would be better handled by the people who understand them best, that is to say you who live here in the Northwest Territories.

Whenever possible you should be making the decisions about regional matters.

That, ladies and gentlemen, is what devolution is all about.

That’s why since 2006 our Government has made advancing devolution and self-government negotiations with Canada’s territories one of our key Northern priorities.

We need only to look to the West to see how people flourish when they have power over their lives.

More than a decade ago, a devolution agreement was signed with Yukon.

Since gaining jurisdiction over their lands and resources, Yukon has roared ahead.

Unemployment is down, investment is up, and Yukon’s economy is stronger than ever before.

The benefits of devolution have never been more evident, and it is those benefits that our government seeks for the people of the Northwest Territories.

Now, not long ago our Government passed a significant milestone with the government of the Northwest Territories and representatives of Aboriginal regional governments when we reached an agreement in principle to turn over control of lands and resources from Ottawa to the territory.

Since then, together we made excellent progress on the details.

Thus, ladies and gentlemen, I’m very pleased to be here with you on a day that I believe is historic for the people of the Northwest Territories and for all Canadians.

Just a moment ago, I witnessed with you the signing of a joint declaration, and I am delighted to therefore announce that the heavy lifting is done, the issues are resolved, and negotiators have reached consensus on the terms of a final devolution agreement.

It is indeed a great day.

Once fully implemented, friends, this agreement will give the Northwest Territories greater authority and control over crown lands, the power to make resource management decisions for those lands, and also the power to collect royalties from those lands, royalties that will be used to invest in infrastructure projects, in healthcare, and in education, creating jobs, growth, and long-term prosperity in communities across the vast expanse of this territory.

Furthermore, our Government will provide the agreed financial and human resources to the government of the Northwest Territories to ensure that this entire transition will be seamless.

As is described in a separate agreement between the government of the Northwest Territories and participating Aboriginal groups, a portion of the resource revenues flowing from devolution will be shared with Aboriginal governments.

And hear me on this: before this agreement is signed, finally, our Government will fulfil our duty to consult with all impacted Aboriginal groups.

Now, Premier, I know that this agreement has been sought for some years by successive governments of the Northwest Territories. That said, your leadership, perseverance and commitment to the people of the Northwest Territories are a big part of the reason that we are here today, and that devolution is finally crossing the goal line.

You should feel very proud, and we all salute your great work.

Now, friends, let me just conclude with a very brief reflection.

On the way up here, I had in my possession a book somebody gave me published nearly 50 years ago.

It was, in fact, a centennial project, a history of Yellowknife, prepared by a local clergyman, the Reverend Ray Price.

At one point, the Reverend Price writes, and I quote, “The Yellowknife of today bears little resemblance to the tiny outpost of civilization of 1935”.

That was written in 1967, just as the city was first becoming the territorial capital. Look at Yellowknife now.

In that book, Reverend Price also writes, “The silent years of the North have gone forever”.

How true.

The Northwest Territories still has that natural beauty above the ground that we all can see I abundance, but it also has significant riches below, riches that are attracting attention from investors around the world, riches that are making the North a region of infinite promise, riches that are making Northerners and all Canadians optimistic about the future.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is time for the people of the Northwest Territories to take control of its destiny.

Some might think of this agreement as the finish line, but we know that what it really is is the beginning of a great new future for the Northwest Territories, for all of the North, and for all of Canada.

Congratulations one and all.

Thanks for having me here today.

Everyone here has a very busy schedule, so I appreciate your taking the time to participate in this event.

We’re in the process of preparing our upcoming federal budget and the next steps in our Economic Action Plan.

To date, Canada has had an outstanding record among developed countries, but the reality is that challenges remain.

And these challenges are not insignificant. We still have uncertainties and holdups in our main traditional markets.

At the same time, though we have opportunities in emerging economies, the competition can be fierce in these markets.

So we’re looking for ideas across the country to continue creating jobs and economic growth.

We still intend to balance the federal budget by the end of our current mandate, without raising taxes, but at the same time we need to invest in order to spur growth and job creation.

I eagerly await your ideas, and once again, thank you for being here.

Denis is a valuable ally to mayors thanks to his wealth of experience, and in his capacity as Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, he is well acquainted with the issues facing the regions.

He is also doing a tremendous job as Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, and deserves a warm round of applause.

Mr. Mayor, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, it is always a pleasure to be back in the beautiful city of Rivière-du-Loup.

I can easily understand why one of the Fathers of Confederation, John A. Macdonald, was so taken with your region… in summer, that is.

Yes, this is true, it is history.

Our very first Prime Minister was advised by his doctor that Rivière-du-Loup was the most appropriate place for him to regain his health, at least in the summertime.

And so it was that for almost two decades, Sir John A. Macdonald kept a summer residence in Rivière-du-Loup just by the river.

This site remains very vibrant today, and is home to a lodge on the banks of the river – an ideal vantage point from which to admire the St. Lawrence Valley.

Regardless of the time of year, your region has a lot going for it.

You can count on an industrious workforce, a dynamic business community and modern infrastructure.

Recently the Fondation de l’entrepreneurship recognized your region for its dynamic spirit and innovative culture.

The foundation conferred on you the title of “leading model community for entrepreneurial culture in Quebec.”

So it is safe to say that your business community is not afraid of challenges.

And we all know that there has been no shortage of challenges in recent years.

But our Government has remained fully committed to economic development in every corner of our great country.

We have made major investments, especially to encourage innovation in such key sectors as the forestry and manufacturing industries.

These innovations are crucial for creating jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity.

Needless to say, now is not the time to take our foot off the pedal.

We must continue building a stronger economy and more prosperous communities, with more and more quality jobs.

To that end, our Government is proud to contribute to the success of our economic mainstays.

In your region, one such mainstay is Premier Tech Ltd. Thanks to the leadership shown by Bernard and Jean Bélanger, a homegrown company has carved out a place for itself on the world scene.

Today Premier Tech and its subsidiaries are present in 19 countries all over the world.

Bernard and Jean deserve our congratulations.

They have succeeded, but they have also been generous.

Despite their success in places like Italy, India and Indonesia, Premier Tech’s head office is still right here in Rivière-du-Loup.

It is my great pleasure to announce today that our Government will be making a significant repayable contribution to help Premier Tech develop and commercialize new products, and in so doing, maintain and create over 200 high quality jobs.

We’re talking here about a slew of projects that will develop some 60 new products over a three-year period, and most of the jobs will be created right here in Rivière-du-Loup in such sectors as science and engineering, agricultural microbiology, plant pathology and marketing.

Jobs will also be created in Joliette, Lachenaie, Drummondville, Montreal and Point-Lebel.

This investment will be made through the federal government’s Quebec Economic Development Program and is part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, a plan that delivers concrete results.

The Canadian economy has created over 900,000 net new jobs since the depths of the recent global recession, one of the best job creation records in the developed world.

Our plan contains targeted, reasonable investments that will help companies like Premier Tech create jobs.

Our plan also calls for a return to balanced budgets by the end of the current mandate, because in controlling spending, we ensure the viability of our programs while keeping taxes low for both workers and businesses.

And the concrete measures in this plan, like the one announced today, will continue to create jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity for all Canadians.

Again, my sincerest congratulations, and thank you very much.

I’m joined today by a number of Saskatchewan aboriginal business leaders, chiefs and business leaders, and we’ve had a general discussion about the economy and specifically about some challenges and opportunities that exist in the communities they’re most familiar with.

This is part of the Economic Action Plan round tables that we’re conducting across the country, not just myself, but all Ministers, all Members of Parliament, to try and get input into budget 2013.

We continue to have a Canadian economy that’s performing relatively strongly.

We’ve created over 900,000 new jobs since the end of the recession, but we all know that we continue to have a lot of challenges.

We’re in a global economy that’s very challenged.

Our traditional export markets are slow, and emerging markets are extremely competitive.

So we’re trying to get everybody’s focus on what we need to do to keep investing, keep creating jobs, while at the same time, of course, keeping our taxes down and continuing to reduce our deficit.

I’ve had a great opportunity to have a discussion with these gentlemen who are experts firsthand in addressing a lot of the challenges and opportunities, particularly in aboriginal communities that we want to address as we move forward.

So I know they’re all extremely busy, so I thank them for the use of their time this afternoon, and really appreciate the opportunity to have this discussion.

Thanks, everyone.

She is the Minister of Health, also the Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and now the Minister for the Arctic Council, which Canada chairs this year.

On top of that, she represents Nunavut, by far the largest riding in the House of Commons.

So for all her good work, please join me in giving the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq a big round of applause.

My thanks also to our master of ceremonies.

Canada’s Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification is a woman who works hard not just in her portfolio, but works hard for all of the people of Saskatchewan in Ottawa, so please give a hand to the Honourable Lynne Yelich.

Greetings to all of my other colleagues from the Parliament of Canada who have joined us here today.

I see we have Ray Bowen, Brad Trost, Rob Clark, Denise Batters, Greg Rickford has come all the way from Ontario.

We’re appreciative that you’re here.

Thank you for joining us.

Thanks to our hosts here at Canlan Ice Sports Agriplex; also to our other dignitaries. Mayor Atchison, nice to see you again.

Thank you for coming. Dr. Doug Clement and others of the Heart and Stroke Foundation, thank you for being here as well.

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, it’s wonderful, always wonderful to be back in Saskatoon.

I tell people that I have one of my fondest memories as Prime Minister in this city, and that was a couple of years back.

I had the opportunity to not only share the stage with, but some of you may recall, to also interview two of my heroes, Gordie Howe and Wayne Gretzky, two of the greatest hockey players of all time.

It was a very special moment, because like many Canadians, like many of you, I am, of course, a big hockey fan.

After all, this is the game that we invented, the game we’ve promoted around the world, and the game we play better than anyone else.

But even the greatest Canadian hockey players can trace their beginnings back to their local community hockey arena.

As hard as it may be to believe, the men and women who amaze us with their speed, their toughness and their athleticism on the ice once needed help to tie their skates.

That’s where, of course, us dads and moms come in.

Every week a scenario like that is played out in community arenas across the country.

Energetic siblings cheer on a brother or sister after they score a goal, parents bond with one another over early morning coffee, and lifelong friendships are formed.

As some of you know, Laureen and I have spent our fair share of time like that in local hockey rinks over the years, cheering on our son, and these are memories that we will always cherish for the rest of our lives.

When you think about it, these community hockey arenas are more than just buildings with one or two sheets of ice, and of course the cold bleachers.

They’re also the heart and soul of communities across the country.

Now, just as our community rinks see great moments of triumph and loss on the scoreboard, they are also witness to medical emergencies, occasionally with tragic results.

With us today is Robin Biggs, whom I met earlier.

I’m glad you’re here with us today, Robin.

Back in 2011 while playing hockey in this very arena, in this very arena, Robin went into a sudden cardiac arrest.

Thankfully this rink had been equipped with an automated external defibrillator, and so bystanders with proper training were able to respond instantly and restarted Robin’s heart.

He is alive and well, and of course we’re also pleased that he’s been able to join us today.

Now, friends, this is not an isolated success story.

There have been many other people in Saskatoon and across Canada whose lives have been saved because quick thinking bystanders utilized this small device.

Unfortunately, unfortunately, not all are as lucky.

This hit home to many of us in 2009 when distinguished photojournalist Tom Hanson suddenly collapsed while playing hockey with friends.

Tom was someone who had travelled extensively with me over the years.

He was in the prime of his life.

And Tom is still very much missed by all of us who knew him.

But Tom’s story, and the stories of countless others has helped spur us into action.

During the last election, we made a commitment to Canadians, a commitment to extend the reach of this lifesaving technology to recreational hockey arenas all across Canada.

And as Canadians know, it has been our government’s practice when we make promises to keep them.

So I’m very pleased to announce that our Government is making a significant investment across Canada to ensure that every recreational hockey rink will be equipped with one of these lifesaving devices.

Let me be clear: that means a defibrillator in every recreational hockey rink from coast to coast to coast.

What’s more, our Government will also support the training to operate them.

Now, before I go any further, I must extend my personal thanks to our valuable partner in this important initiative.

The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

Please give them a big round of applause for their work.

Our Government is very pleased to be working with the Heart and Stroke Foundation to supply these portable, easy to use, effective defibrillators, and also to provide the necessary training.

More under our government’s program, more than 1500 defibrillators will be distributed to arenas that do not already have one. Now, friends, let me just say a couple of other things.

First, sudden cardiac arrest can affect men and women of any age, at any fitness level, at any time.

In fact, tens of thousands of Canadians suffer from sudden cardiac arrest every year.

We know that most cardiac arrest deaths occur outside of a hospital.

The only chance of survival in many cases such as this is rapid treatment.

The early use of a defibrillator then can, combined with CPR and the prompt actions of emergency medical services significantly improves the chance of survival from cardiac arrest.

We have the technology and we know that it works.

We know that with minimal training, defibrillators are easy to use, and we know that by making these devices more readily available, fast treatment will save lives.

And in situations where even a minute can make the difference between life and loss, our investment is indeed a significant one.

The other thing I do want to say is this to all those adult hockey players out there.

And it’s something I say when I coach our Conservative Party hockey team.

Hockey is a very physically demanding sport, especially on the heart.

It is something best played because you are in shape, not something to be played to get into shape.

So be very careful when you’re old in trying to do something on the ice that you would have done when you were younger and in the peak of condition.

Ladies and gentlemen, the health and safety of Canadian families remains one of our government’s priorities.

And when it comes to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle, our record is strong.

We created the successful children’s fitness tax credit, and we’ve assisted in building and upgrading hundreds of community and recreational centres across the country.

Today’s announcement is another practical step to protect Canadians and encourage healthy living.

By making our local rinks better prepared to respond to sudden health emergencies, this action is one more way that our Government is putting the health and safety of our families first.

 It is another promise kept.

Thank you for having me.

“Thank you as well to our master of ceremonies today, our host because he’s the Member of Parliament for this area, the Honourable Julian Fantino who has been a great addition to our team in Ottawa.

“I also want to thank all of my colleagues from both Houses of Parliament who have come to be here with us today for this very important announcement.

“Special greetings to Member of Parliament Bev Shipley who moved the motion in the House of Commons to get a vote to establish the Office of Religious Freedom.

“And thank you as well to our host here today, National General Secretary Dr. Aslam Daud and National President Lal Khan Malik of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Canada, thank you.

“Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, I’d like to start today by expressing my gratitude, to join with Jason to express my gratitude, to the Ahmadiyya Muslim community here in Vaughan.

“I’m grateful for your generous hospitality but even more I’m grateful for the outstanding example that you set.

“This community has experienced, as Jason mentioned, the terrible cruelty of persecution, persecution on the basis of religion.

“In spite of that, your belief in tolerance and harmony endures.

“In this you make an inspiring contribution to our values.

“You strengthen Canada’s commitment to diversity and pluralism.

“And you remind your fellow Canadians that the freedoms we enjoy are precious, and must never be taken for granted.

“So as your Prime Minister, I thank you on behalf of all Canadians for strengthening and enriching the fabric of our country.

“Ladies and gentlemen, around the world, violations of religious freedom are widespread, and they are increasing.

“In Iran, Bahá’ís and Christians face harassment, imprisonment, and, in some cases, death.

“In Pakistan, Ahmadiyya Muslims, Shiites Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, and Hindus are vulnerable to persecution and violence.

“In China, Christians who worship outside government-approved boundaries are driven underground and their leaders are arrested and detained while Uyghur Muslims, Tibetan Buddhists, and Falun Gong practitioners are subjected to repression and intimidation.

“Elsewhere we watch in horror as sanctuaries are destroyed and believers are attacked and in some cases slaughtered, Shia Muslim pilgrims in Iraq, Coptic Christian adherents in Egypt, Christians at worship in Nigeria, the list, appallingly, goes on and on.

“In the face of these injustices and atrocities, Canada will not be silent.

“Indeed, Canada has not been silent.

“Under our Government, Canada has spoken out consistently and emphatically.

“Without fear or favour, Canada defends human rights around the world.

“And we have not only spoken out; we have also taken action.
“And we have rallied support for religious freedom, for example, among the leaders
of the G-8, of the Commonwealth and at the Francophonie.

“And we are also providing safe haven in Canada for some 20,000 Iraqi refugees, many of whom are Chaldean Catholics, driven from their ancient homeland under the threat of death.

“But we are compelled to do more by the sheer number and gravity of the offences against this fundamental right around the world and the assault it implies on democracy itself.

“The cause is just.
 
“The need is urgent.

“And our responsibility is clear.

“As Canadians, as citizens of a free country, we have a solemn duty.

“As Sir Wilfrid Laurier once said,

“And I quote, we should always remember this: ‘Canada is free and freedom is its nationality.’

“Ladies and gentlemen, the freedom to worship according to one’s own conscience is at the root of our personalities and therefore, at the root of all of our liberties.

“That is why I am deeply honoured to be here today, in a place where those once persecuted can now freely worship.

“In this country whose hallmark is toleration of diversity and respect for human dignity, I am deeply honoured ladies and gentlemen, to announce the official establishment of Canada’s Office of Religious Freedom.

“I am also further delighted to announce Canada’s first Ambassador of Religious Freedom, he is a scholar, a man of principle and deep convictions, please welcome everybody, Dr. Andrew Bennett.

“To be housed in the Department of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Bennett will monitor religious freedom around the world.

“He will promote it as a key objective of Canadian foreign policy.
 
“And, Dr. Bennett will help ensure that the protection of religious freedom informs the policies and programs of the Government of Canada.

“Dr. Bennett, you have my best wishes and full support as you set forth on this most important mission.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I know that this audience requires no convincing on the need for action in defence of religious freedom.

“But there are some who, while generally supportive, would not have thought to make it a priority, and there are a few who may believe this is of interest to only a limited number of Canadians and the communities most affected.

“Let me address this directly.

“There is a crucial and historical link between respect for religious pluralism and the development of democracy itself.

“And that is why we shall continue to champion freedom of conscience and freedom of religion throughout the world.

“And, today, as many centuries ago, democracy will not find - democracy cannot - find fertile ground in any society where notions of the freedom of personal conscience and faith are not permitted.

“Former Prime Minister John Diefenbaker, who was one of the greatest human rights champions in our history, noted these realities when he introduced his original Canadian Bill of Rights.

“To remind you what he said: ‘I am a Canadian, a free Canadian, free to speak without fear, free to worship God in my own way, free to stand for what I think is right, free to oppose what I believe wrong, free to choose those who shall govern my country. This heritage of freedom I pledge to uphold for myself and all mankind.’

“Indeed, it is ‘this heritage of freedom’ that Prime Minister Diefenbaker spoke of, that has drawn so many millions to our great country.

“And, it has been in defence of this heritage of freedom that so many Canadians
have given their lives, in so many struggles against tyranny and oppression around the world.

“Throughout history and in our own day, governments that violate religious freedom are also prone to impose themselves in every other sphere of life.

“In contrast, the great tradition of which Canada is a leading example, is founded on the recognition of what Prime Minister Diefenbaker called ‘the sacred personality of man’.

“It is the tradition of limited government under the rule of law, a government limited by its profound respect for the inviolable dignity of the human person and, thus limited, a government dedicated to promoting the freedom and prosperity of the people it serves.

“Our Government is dedicated to this purpose, and we will work with other countries and all peoples of goodwill, to promote the principles we share. 

“In closing, ladies and gentlemen, I want to tell you a little bit about a personal encounter I had, one that speaks to the fundamental importance of our initiative today.

“I am privileged, in the course of my service as Prime Minister, to encounter many, extraordinary individuals and, from time to time, even among all of these extraordinary people, someone is exceptional.

“One such person I met in my office on Parliament Hill in 2011.

“He was the Minister of Minorities of Pakistan, Shahbaz Bhatti.

“He worked tirelessly to defend the vulnerable not only his fellow Christians, but also Hindus, Sikhs, Ahmadi Muslims, and all other minorities.

“He did so knowing that it placed him under a constant and imminent threat to his life.

“He was an honourable and humble man.

“Shahbaz and I discussed the threats faced by religious minorities, and the need for Canada to do more.

“Only three weeks later, while traveling to work in Islamabad, Shahbaz Bhatti was assassinated.

“Those of us who met him, and certainly his family and friends, will continue to mourn his loss.

“But his legacy, is, I believe, a legacy of hope, hope for those who are persecuted for their faith, hope for those who believe we can make a difference, hope that if there is goodness enough to inspire one man to speak out even in the most harrowing of circumstances, there is goodness enough to inspire all of us to do our part.

“Unlike Shahbaz, most of the countless men and women who are persecuted for their faith are not known to us by name.

“But to them we say, Canada will not forget you.

“When you are silenced, we will speak out.

“We will use our freedom to plead for yours.

“And, we will not rest until the day you can exercise, fully and without fear, your birthright as members of the human family. 

“Thank you. “

Welcome as well to my colleagues, to Minister Julian Fantino, and to local Members of Parliament Paul Calandra and Lois Brown, who’ve also joined us.

This is part of the pre-budget consultations that all members of our government are conducting across the country.

As we prepare the next phase of our Economic Action Plan for 2013, we’re trying to hear what exactly is on people’s minds.

We have, as we all know, significant challenges in front of us.

We remain part of a global economy that is significantly challenged.

Many of our traditional markets, particularly the United States continue to have significant growth employment problems, and at the same time we face, obviously, pretty serious competition from emerging economies.

Through it all Canada has been doing relatively well.

We have created over 900,000 net new jobs since the end of the recession, which is one of the best records in the developed world, but we are aware of the fragility, and we do have to keep our focus going forward.

We want to make the right investments to help our economy continue to grow and create jobs, but at the same time, obviously seeing our deficit come down, and ultimately our budget get balanced.

So that’s why we’re here today.

Appreciate everybody coming, and I look forward to our discussion.

Thanks, everyone.