Mr. Speaker, National Volunteer Week is a time to thank those men and women who devote time and energy to helping those in need, promoting a good cause and improving the quality of life in our communities.
Volunteerism is a tradition as old as this country and it has played a key role in the development of Canadian society. By celebrating National Volunteer Week, we recognize the important contribution of today's volunteers. At the same time, by recognizing them as role models, we are seeking to encourage tomorrow's volunteers.
Special thanks to all those volunteering their services with the hundreds of organizations in my riding. In fact, let us salute volunteers across Canada. They are truly our greatest national asset.