Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address what I believe to be the essence of Canadianism. We are ten provinces, two territories, numerous municipalities and many neighbourhoods, but above all we are Canada.
We are a nation that shares common values, a nation shaped by the challenges of nature, a nation forged by war but one that has fought for peace. We are people who have developed compassion and understanding for others in society. Most of all being Canadian means understanding that the issue is not whether we get a fair share of the pie but rather that the pie is shared fairly.
If we are to survive as a nation, those blessed by economic advantage must be willing to help those areas not so fortunate. That is the way it should be. I am proud to live in a society that cares for the least advantaged and whose people share their good fortune with their fellow Canadians.
In Canada, that is simply what we do.