Mr. Speaker, I stand in the House today to share with my colleague the sincere feelings all of us have toward the life of Walter Harris.
The legacy he has left behind will never be surpassed. He did it with a dedication to Canadians and without looking for the self-acclamation to which some politicians may fall prey.
Today we in this country take RRSPs for granted. We seldom think of the hard work, dedication, powers of persuasion and genuine empathy to the future of Canadian people it took for Walter Harris, as Canada's finance minister, to introduce registered retirement savings plans to us. Just think of the contribution he gave to our society in that one issue alone.
That is not all. Walter Harris was Canada's first minister of citizenship and immigration in 1950. Just imagine the leadership, the ingenuity and the long hours of dedication it took to build that department and establish the philosophy that would develop our nation. He was well known for his knowledge of parliamentary procedure, which enhanced his ability to get things done.
The list of accomplishments of Walter Harris would take many hours to expand upon in the House. Let me identify just a few.
He practised law in Markdale, Ontario, and he was successful at it. He served in France during World War II. He served in the House of Commons in 1940. He was re-elected in 1945, again re-elected in 1949 and again in 1953. That is no small feat for anyone, but the dedication to one's country is evident in his desire to serve. He returned to law practice in 1957 and was again exceptional in that business. Walter has been described by some as a genius in politics, and I doubt whether anyone would disagree.
Walter Harris was predeceased by his wife Grace. He is survived by three children. To his children, his friends and fellow members of parliament, we wish to express our sincerest condolences.
Canada is a greater place, its citizens enjoy a greater financial security because of a politician who put the affairs of his country ahead of his own. Thank you, Walter Harris.