Mr. Speaker, fifty years ago, Quebec adopted the fleur-de-lis as our provincial flag. Two years later, on March 9, 1950, Quebec's legislative assembly passed a bill giving this decision the force of law. It is this anniversary that I wish to remember today.
Quebec has seen many changes in the last fifty years. It has moved ahead with great speed in all areas. Over the years, people from all four corners of the globe have come to Quebec and played a role in making our province what it is today.
It has become a modern, dynamic and outward-looking society. As the new millennium approaches, Quebec has everything it needs to continue on this course.
The fleur-de-lis is obviously a reminder of the francophone identity that runs through our province's history, but it is also a rallying symbol for all Quebeckers.
I look to it with pride in my beautiful riding, in my identity as a Quebecker and as a Canadian. It is my belief that, in the future, the fleur-de-lis and the maple leaf will continue to fly side by side.