Mr. Speaker, today marks the last day of sittings of the 36th Parliament for this century and millennium. This extra special holiday season is therefore an appropriate time to give thanks for our country, for all of the bounty, benefits and privileges of the good life that we as Canadians enjoy.
As the member for Sault Ste. Marie it is also appropriate to give thanks for all of the forces that have shaped my hometown of Sault Ste. Marie, for all of the efforts of the many people who have grown our city into an extraordinary community. I particularly recognize one man, an American, whose efforts grew the population of Sault Ste. Marie from 3,000 to over 30,000 in just eight years. Francis H. Clerke established a steel mill, paper mill, power plant, street car system and much more. These are the industries our town continues to depend on to this day. May his spirit take up permanent residence in our city and may his can do attitude infect the future generations of the citizens of Sault Ste. Marie.
Merry Christmas, Joyeux Noël to all.