Mr. Speaker, today we celebrate Chinese New Year, a time to ensure good fortune for the future.
The year of the dog corresponds to year 4692 of the ancient Chinese lunar calendar which counts back to the first Emperor Huang. The year of the dog will be a prosperous year, provided harmony is maintained and conflict is avoided.
On his deathbed Buddha summoned all animals to visit him. Only 12 animals answered his plea. The dog was the 11th animal to visit, thus becoming one of the 12 animals to which Buddha assigned a year in which to rule as a reward.
My constituency of Vancouver East has a high percentage of people of Chinese origin. These people came as immigrants and have contributed significantly to the growth of this country. Through multiculturalism they have been able to retain their traditions and culture and to share them with all of us.
These days in Vancouver the Chinese community is celebrating in style. I would like to wish all of the Canadians of Chinese origin and all Chinese people a very happy New Year.
I am sure my colleagues want to join me in wishing all of them gung hey fat choy or sen nin fye lock.