Mr. Speaker, today is the second anniversary of the government's historic apology to first nations. Our country was deeply moved by the authenticity of that nation to nation exchange. However, an apology without action is empty rhetoric.
The promise of the government to sign on to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples has yet to be honoured. With the stroke of a pen, that could be changed today.
Nationally, we must take action on those rights to improve the lives of first nations, Inuit, and aboriginal peoples. Here, on Algonquin territory, we must join the call for the establishment of a national aboriginal centre on Ottawa's Victoria Island, just metres away from this place. This is a joint vision by elder William Commanda and the renowned architect Douglas Cardinal.
Reconciliation requires acknowledgement. Acknowledgement requires action.
We have acknowledged. Now it is time to act.
Meegwetch.