Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I remember back in 1995, I believe, I was hired by the federal government, the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs, to organize one of the very first few aboriginal day celebrations. They gave me a budget and I got performers from all over the North, Inuit, Metis and Dene. George Tuccaro was hired to be the M.C. Unfortunately, Mr. Tuccaro took a spill. He tripped over wiring on the stage. We used a flat bed for a stage and he tripped, so I had to take over as M.C. I will reiterate what I said then. "It is about time that aboriginal people are recognized for their contributions to the world." There are many, many things that we take for granted today. Tables of corn, for example, they are aboriginal products.

I believe by us passing this bill and making June 21st a statutory holiday, it goes a long way in recognition of aboriginal contributions to the Canadian society and the North American society. I fully support this, Mr. Chairman. Thank you.