Mr. Speaker, the United Nations have designated the year 2000 the international year for the culture of peace. As parliamentarians, we must all concern ourselves with the development of peace in the world.
Parliamentarians from around the world have a vital role in this regard by allowing the public to play its citizenship role fully and promoting its participation in democracy. In this regard, the Bloc Quebecois has created a workplace dedicated to democracy and the role of the people. This initiative warrants encouragement.
Perhaps it is not a mistake to think that the indefatigable work of the artisans of UNESCO will open our hearts, and the words and actions of public decision makers will give expression to the appropriateness of their concern for real peace.
By introducing bills on female circumcision, sex tourism and the creation of a position of poverty commissioner, I wanted to enable those, often children, who cannot express their distress and suffering, to be heard.