Thank you, Mr Speaker, for this opportunity to recognize those who responded to the January ice storm, people who assured the safety of the storm's victims with compassionate and caring hearts.
As member of Parliament for Hastings—Frontenac—Lennox and Addington and as chair of the eastern Ontario caucus, I want to recognize the community volunteers, firefighters, snowmobile club members and others who responded quickly and efficiently. They ensured that roads were cleared, isolated residents were visited and those who wished to go to shelters were assisted. Others such as municipal employees worked well beyond the call of duty to implement emergency response actions.
The women and men of the military have earned special recognition for their efforts right across the storm area. I also want to acknowledge the hydro and phone workers who risked their lives to restore service.
Many Canadians in eastern Ontario and Quebec have moved past the crisis. Unfortunately others remain without hydro today.
Please join me in saying thank you to the volunteers and workers who have given so much and especially to those who continue to meet the challenges in the wake of the storm.