Mr. Speaker, I believe passionately in this country and its citizens. Whether we belong to one of the three founding realities in Canada, the aboriginal people, the French or the English, or whether we hail from a group that chose to come to Canada to find a nation that provided hope and opportunity, we love our country.
This summer I visited communities in the Gaspe region of Quebec. I did not meet wild eyed separatists with an animosity toward Canada. Instead I met people who deeply respected Canada but were also proud of their distinct culture and traditions.
I will not raise the letter I have on my desk, but I have a letter signed by 65 seniors in my riding asking me to tell Quebecers to stay in Canada so that we may continue to be together in the world's best country.
The only way to do this is to vote no on Monday.