Mr. Speaker, two days ago the Government of Canada committed over $275 million for the purchase of 10 new large vessels for the Coast Guard. This investment, along with the $47 million budgeted annually in the 2003 budget, is a significant investment in our Coast Guard and it is good news for the people of Dartmouth—Cole Harbour.
Today's Coast Guard is served by highly skilled and trained men and women and we thank them for their service. We also honour those who served in the past and risked their lives in the service of our country.
Captain Paul Fournier is one such person. He died recently in Nova Scotia at the age of 91. Born in Quebec, he served in the Canadian Coast Guard from 1941 to 1976. He was in command of the Sir John A. Macdonald when that ship escorted the Manhattan through the Northwest Passage in 1968. He was made an Officer of the Order of Canada.
We remember Captain Fournier for his long service and love of country. I hope all members will join me in extending our condolences to the family of Captain Fournier.