Mr. Speaker, the throne speech neglected to acknowledge and invite municipal governments, the governments closest to the people to help keep Canada together. There are over 4,400 municipal governments in Canada who are the first order of government, again the governments closest to the people. Who better to consult on any subject, including national unity. That is why I have written to every Canadian municipality inviting their ideas and input on how to renew a united Canada.
Many hon. members in this Chamber began their political careers in municipal government. There are at least 60 such members in this Chamber today. In 1996 at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities convention in Calgary, many including myself heard the prime minister acknowledge the importance of municipal governments and that it was time to recognize the municipal governments in their right.
The prime minister made a pledge to municipalities and municipalities want him to make good on that pledge in this Parliament.