Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker and colleagues. I really appreciate this opportunity to talk about this very important issue. Mr. Speaker, since today is Valentine's Day, I rise on behalf of my Cabinet colleagues to recognize a true friend of ours, Mr. Edward Walter Picco, the honourable Member from Iqaluit.

---Applause

Mr. Speaker, Members may have heard Mr. Picco's interview this morning on CBC Iqaluit. In summary, Mr. Speaker, the honourable Member explained in his usual, eloquent manner, his lonely role as a defender of truth and goodness and the laudable positions he has taken since being elected to the Legislative Assembly. Our only concern with the interview, Mr. Speaker, is that Mr. Picco seems to suggest that Cabinet, in some way, is trying to muzzle him for his views. To the contrary, Mr. Speaker, we enjoy listening to the dulcet tones of Mr. Picco's voice almost as much as he does.

In recognition of this, Mr. Speaker, the Cabinet would like to present to Mr. Picco a cassette of his interview this moming. Mr. Speaker, this is truly a gift that keeps on giving, as Mr. Picco will be able to enjoy listening to his interview over and over and over again. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause