For some time now, the House has been paying tribute to people who have greatly contributed to Canadian life. It is our way to celebrate Canadian excellence and success.
Today we are honoured to receive some of this country's most distinguished women athletes. These women have represented us in national and international competitions. They have broken records and have won Olympic medals for Canada. They are symbols of excellence and sources of inspiration for Canadians.
They are seated in the gallery now. While I introduce them I ask you to please hold your applause until they stand together: Cross-country skiers Shirley and Sharon Firth; gymnast Lori Fung; figure skater Karen Magnussen; curlers Marcia Gudereit, Jan Betker and Sandra Peterson; speed skater Sylvia Burka; skier Lucille Wheeler-Vaughan; swimmer Joanne Mucz-Hainey; judoist Tina Takahashi; skier Anne Heggtveit-Hamilton; shooter Linda Thom; cross country skier and kayaker Sue Holloway; skier Betsy Clifford-Higgins; track and fielder Diane Jones-Konihowski; synchronized swimmer Michelle Cameron-Coulter; and marathon swimmer Vicki Keith-Munro.
Please join me in welcoming these remarkable women who have made outstanding contributions to Canadian sport and who have honoured our country by their achievements.