Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our elders, as my honourable colleague, Mr. Ng, announced in this House regarding the progress on plans for the International Year of Older Persons. Throughout our land we have many individuals who have contributed greatly to the formation of this country and for their respective regions. In my region we have had many great elders, Chief Jimmy Bruno, Chief Arrowmaker, Chief Mowhi and many others who have seen the future and realized the need for change.

All regions across our country have community members who have passed on or are in their later years who contribute to the betterment of the community and the country at large. These residents are a great resource for us all and should be recognized for their contributions. I believe this will be a very worthwhile event and I hope the International Year of Older Persons will be promoted and recognized by our regions. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause