Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Roger Tomlinson, who passed away last weekend.
Born in England but a proud Canadian, Dr. Tomlinson is globally known as the “Father of GIS”, having conceived and developed the world's first geographic information system for the Government of Canada in 1962.
His innovation laid the foundation for modern digital mapping and spurred the development of a worldwide multi-billion-dollar industry. This visionary geographer and high-tech pioneer enabled us to better understand our environment and to better manage our precious natural resources.
In 2001 Dr. Tomlinson was named a member of the Order of Canada and in 2013 was promoted to an officer of the order for transforming the field of geography.
He was a generous mentor to many. He never lost his sharp analytical edge or his dry sense of humour.
I ask all members to join me in remembering a great Canadian.