Mr. Speaker, I would like to draw to the attention of the House the 50th anniversary of the Canadian Wildlife Service and the celebration of 50 years of wildlife preservation in Canada.
Since its creation in November 1947 by the government of William Lyon Mackenzie King, the Canadian Wildlife Service has instituted many extraordinary programs that protect the Canadian wilderness and enhance environmental awareness of Canadians.
Such initiatives include research into the effects of toxic chemicals on the Great Lakes, which has led to the banning of DDT chemicals in Canada; conservation policies such as the Canadian Wildlife Act and legislation to protect endangered species; and a network of national wildlife areas and migratory bird sanctuaries that protect over 11 million hectares of land for wildlife. The list goes on.
I would like all members of the House to congratulate the Canadian Wildlife Service for its distinguished service to the people of Canada. Without such agencies our children and grandchildren may not have the opportunity to enjoy the varied beauty of the Canadian wilderness.
May the Canadian Wildlife Service continue to serve the people of Canada and the world for generations.