Mr. Speaker, we celebrate Mother's Day to acknowledge, honour and appreciate the strength, guidance and compassion of our mothers. Mothers are our most important role models, teachers and nurturers. Mothers are the foundation of the family and help make stronger families. Stronger families make stronger communities and a stronger nation.
As we pay tribute to our mothers around the world, we should take a moment to consider all the sacrifices they have made for us.
In fact, every day should be Mother's Day.
Our government recognizes the importance of supporting mothers, both at home and abroad. Canada is leading international efforts with programs through our Muskoka initiative to improve the health of mothers and children in some of the world's poorest countries. This will help save some of the 24,000 children who die needlessly every day in the developing world.
I ask all members to please join with me in wishing mothers across Canada a very happy Mother's Day.