Colleagues, before we begin with orders of the day, I would like to take this opportunity to express my deep and heartfelt appreciation to the Members of this House, to the staff, to the people of Yellowknife and people across the North for their prayers and expressions of condolences to my family and I on the recent loss of my wife Elaine. Her contribution to the North and people of the North will continue to be remembered in many ways. I want to say thank you for allowing me the time off to be with my family and thank you to Deputy Speaker Krutko for filling in for me and I want to thank you for your genuine kindness that has helped ease our loss over the past few days. Thank you.
Today is Commonwealth Day. The Commonwealth is home to more than 1.7 billion people, a unique family in 54 countries, with many faiths, races, languages and cultures, spread across every continent and ocean in the world. The dynamic and vibrant network of partnerships that exist among its people give the commonwealth its unique strength in promotion, democracy, development and cooperation.
The second Monday in March is observed annually by all members of the Commonwealth. This day is used to promote understanding about global issues, international cooperation and the work of the modern Commonwealth. Each year, there is a different theme. This year's theme for Commonwealth Day 2003 is Partners in Development. Development is about people, their quality of life, and the choices available to them as they strive to reach their full potential. It is about finding new ways to provide adequate food, shelter, clothing, education and jobs, healthcare, transportation, safe living conditions, good government and a stable economy.
Commonwealth Day is celebrated in different ways. Many cities, for example, host multi-faith observances. The largest is held at Westminster Abbey in London and is attended by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, head of the Commonwealth parliaments, and legislatures mark the day with speeches and events.
Today, the Royal Union flag, also known as the Union Jack, will be flown along with the Canadian flag on all Government of Canada buildings and establishments across Canada to mark Canada's membership in the Commonwealth of nations.
Commonwealth Day is an opportunity to remember the values, traditions and aspirations we all share as Commonwealth citizens. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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