Raymond Gravel

[Abbé Pierre, January 29th, 2007]

Mr. Speaker, last week we were saddened to learn of the passing of Abbé Pierre at the age of 94. I would like to pay tribute to this illustrious man, a prophet for our time, who influenced several generations not only in his native France, but also around the world through his commitment to serving the poor and the destitute for more than 70 years.

Abbé Pierre nurtured a warm relationship with Quebec. In 1995, he received the Ordre national du Québec for his work and devotion.

As Pierre Foglia wrote last Tuesday, "Abbé Pierre was the last in a long line of good people who indignantly refused to accept poverty. ... Now that Abbé Pierre is gone, all we have left are good people. ... Without a sense of indignation, we become accustomed to doing good works instead of working for social justice." I would add that we need more prophets like him who are not afraid to be indignant and who work to achieve justice and equality for all.

My Bloc Québécois colleagues and I offer our sincere condolences to Abbé Pierre's family and friends.

[Repentigny, December 13th, 2006]

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have the opportunity to thank voters in the riding of Repentigny for placing their trust in me during the election on November 27. I am also grateful to the team of volunteers who did such a good job of guiding and reassuring me during my first election campaign.

I would also like to thank all of my Bloc Québécois colleagues who, despite their busy schedules, found time to support me in the riding.

I am very proud to be part of the Bloc Québécois team and I would like my colleagues to know that I support them. My door is always open.

Above all, I would not want to forget my bishop, the bishop of Joliette, who made it possible for me to experience life in politics. A very special thank you to Msgr. Gilles Lussier.

In closing, I would like to tell my constituents what I used to tell everyone during the election campaign: You are a great bunch of people.