Masi, Olivia Rockwell. That was an ever beautiful voice. Olivia is serving as a Page in the Assembly, and we thank her and all of the other Pages for their hard work.

Colleagues, today marks the 53rd anniversary of the national flag of Canada. It was on February 15, 1965, that our Canadian flag first flew above our nation’s capital. Our national flag has been flown with pride since that day. In 1996, February 15th was declared National Flag of Canada Day, to commemorate and celebrate what has become one of the most iconic and recognizable flags across the world. Not only is our flag recognized the world over as a symbol of this great country, but it is associated with the rights, freedoms, and ideals that we embrace as Canadians.

In 2018, the national flag of Canada is celebrating its 53rd anniversary during the 2018 Winter Olympics. This important symbol of our identity will be flown, cheering on our Canadian Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Members, please join me in celebration of national flag of Canada day. Thank you, colleagues.

Item 2, Ministers’ statements. Minister of Education, Culture and Employment.