Mr. Speaker, this week Canadians of Portuguese origin will be celebrating the 33rd anniversary of their liberation from the dictatorship that had gripped Portugal for 49 years.
This year, however, celebrations will be even more special because of the federal government's decision to no longer require a visa for visitors from Portugal. The decision reflects the desire of the government to respond to Canadians' expectations, especially those of the Portuguese community.
On behalf of the over 11,000 Canadians who signed a petition on this issue, which I had the honour of depositing last December, I wish to thank my government for its decision. I also wish to take this opportunity to bid farewell to the Ambassador of Portugal to Canada, His Excellency Fernando Manuel da Silva Marques and his wife Natalia who will be ending their term in Ottawa next month. I wish them the best of luck. Merci.