Mr. Speaker, today is Oceans Day. First declared on June 8, 1992 during the Rio earth summit, Oceans Day is meant to remind us and challenge us to become better caretakers of our oceans' environment.
Regardless of where you live, marine life and oceans are important to every Canadian. Not only does what happens in the marine environment affect us but what we do affects it.
No better example of this exists than in my riding where the sea is an economic lifeline for many coastal communities. This lifeline has been placed under considerable strain over the past few years.
Oceans Day serves to remind us that individuals can make a difference through the many projects, exhibits and conferences which are taking place today across the country.
I encourage all members of the House to help raise public awareness among our constituents about the importance of oceans to our lives.