Mr. Speaker, November 20 marks the sixth anniversary of National Child Day as proclaimed by parliament. This is a day when children all over the country are being celebrated for their uniqueness and importance as valued members of our society.
National Child Day is a day that calls on us to address the rights of our children and children around the world. These rights should include but are not limited to proper nutrition, access to health care, education, protection from exploitation and abuse and the right to express themselves.
This year's objective on National Child Day is to increase awareness and understanding of the importance of healthy child development, particularly in the early years of life. In valuing children we can and should take action to help our children reach their full potential.
Investing in children through promoting good physical, mental and social health outcomes benefits all Canadians. I therefore encourage all hon. members to work to ensure that investing in children is a significant priority in our parliamentary agenda.