Mr. Speaker, it is an honour for me today to point out that November 20 will be the sixth edition of national child day, which was proclaimed by an act of parliament as a result of the efforts of the member for Ottawa Centre.
As members of parliament, as parents and as concerned citizens, we must never forget that our children are our responsibility.
We must make a commitment to their welfare, safety and education and remember that as citizens it is our obligation to make a difference in the lives of future generations.
I quote the elders of the Cree Nations. There is a common belief among the Cree Nations that a child is a gift or a loan from the Great Spirit and that one is given the responsibility to raise and care for that child. Since that child is a gift from the Great Spirit the child is sacred and must be treated with respect and dignity.