Mr. Speaker, I too wish to comment on this the fourth anniversary of National Child Day.
National Child Day was designated to commemorate two historic United Nations events: the adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959, and the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989.
This convention, ratified by Canada in 1991, is aimed at ensuring the survival, protection and development of children. It provides a framework to value and respect children and youth as full-fledged human beings. The convention addresses many aspects of the lives of children and youth: proper nutrition; access to health care and education; protection from exploitation and abuse; and the right to express their opinions and to participate in matters that affect them.
Children are our future. As a society we must do everything we can to ensure their happiness, their good health and their ability to lead full and productive lives.
I call on all members of the House to join in the celebration of National Child Day.