Mr. Speaker, we cannot underestimate the importance of declaring May 15, 1994 as the International Day of the Family.
This United Nations declaration pays tribute to families around the world, promoting awareness of their needs. The family is the most important unit in our communities.
The realities of this decade, the growing emphasis on family values, demographic and socioeconomic changes are placing enormous pressures on workers of all levels and professions. We must find that golden balance between meeting the family obligations and fulfilling workplace demands.
As a person who is committed to these dual responsibilities, as so many of my hon. colleagues are, I hope the celebration of the International Day of the Family will sensitize all of us. Throughout our lives we seek our joys with, as we seek our comfort from our families.
In 1994 we have an opportunity to strengthen our relationships with the people closest to us. Strong and healthy families create strong and healthy societies.