moved for leave to introduce Bill C-302, an act to establish an oath of allegiance to the flag of Canada.
Madam Speaker, this legislation will adopt an official oath of allegiance to the flag of Canada. No such oath presently exists. The flag is an important symbol in our lives. We remember British fishing boats flying it in support of us. We look with pride when it is raised at the Olympics. We see it on the sleeve of our peacekeepers. It is a unifying symbol of respect and tolerance throughout Canada.
The oath can be recited at school or before meetings, wherever the flag is prominent. The bill calls on a committee to consult with Canadians regarding the wording. As this will be an oath which will be used by Canadians, it is important that they participate in its wording. Canadians are proud of their flag and what it means to us and to the world.
This legislation will give Canadians an official oath to acknowledge its importance in all of our lives.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed.)