Mr. Speaker, my compliments to the Reform member across the way.
As an MP from a rural riding I have seen firsthand the outstanding contributions that women make to rural communities. My wife Brenda and I have farmed together for many years. We are partners in everything we do. In fact she is now the full time farmer.
Twenty-six per cent of Canadian farms are operated by women and these women make a valuable contribution to the fabric of Canadian agriculture.
The farm women's movement during the past 30-odd years has focused on roles, responsibilities and the rights of farm women as equal partners. They have addressed important issues such as land ownership, training, rural restructuring, environmental, health and safety issues.
Farm women play an important role in fostering a broad public understanding about the needs of and potential for Canadian agriculture.
I take the occasion presented by International Women's Week to thank farm women and their leaders for their contribution to our agricultural sector.