Mr. Speaker, yesterday was an important day for Canadians of Greek origin.
The first reason is that the Liberal candidates they voted for in the byelections were all elected. I want to congratulate my new colleagues to this House.
The second reason is that they celebrated the 175th anniversary of the independence of the Hellenic republic. On that day in 1821, the Greeks declared their independence from nearly 400 years of Ottoman rule. The struggle for independence and democracy put forth by the Greeks of that time will forever be remembered by their descendants no matter where they are in the world.
Today on Parliament Hill we will celebrate this special day with Canadians of Greek origin from across Canada. I wish to take this opportunity to welcome them to Ottawa and to offer them my best wishes. I ask all my colleagues to attend if they can tonight.
ZHTO H ELLAS
ZHTO O KANADAS