Mr. Speaker, on behalf of members of Parliament I extend congratulations to Superintendent Len Olfert of the RCMP and to other members of the force for their exemplary performance in fulfilling their professional duties of enforcing the court order to remove the blockade erected by the Upper Nicola Indian Band.
The barricade was removed in a peaceful and safe manner. The RCMP demonstrated a cultural appreciation, recognition and sensitivity that enabled a communication channel to be
maintained between the members of the force and the First Nations leaders involved in this serious dispute.
Appreciation must also be extended to the First Nations peoples involved. Despite their serious historic grievances they were prepared to co-operate with the RCMP and agreed to resolve any differences through a process of negotiation.
This action bodes well for a satisfactory resolution of the issues. It once again reminds us why the RCMP is the most professional and respected police force in the entire world.