Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the Reform Party to pay tribute to James Bourque and to give our respects and condolences to his family.
As was stated by our colleagues, Mr. Bourque was a well known aboriginal leader from the Northwest Territories. His heritage is truly Canadian. He was of both Cree and Ukrainian descent, but he devoted his life to Canada and to the betterment of all its people.
All too often in life, public service goes unrecognized. Mr. Bourque gave a great deal of his life to the service of his country and for this effort we thank him. We encourage others, especially young people, to follow in his footsteps.
We are looking forward to receiving the work that he has done with the commission on aboriginal affairs which we expect to be tabled in the House later this year.