Mr. Speaker, this year's Citizenship and Heritage Week, which begins today, gives us pause for reflection. It reminds us of the rich history of our people—from the first nations and the Inuit to the early settlers and newer immigrants—who collectively have defined our common identity and shared values.
As a people, we come to help our neighbours during emergencies, but do not wait for disasters to show we really care for our fellow citizens. Witness the social union accord signed last week by the federal and provincial governments. It enhances our sense of belonging to one Canada where the quality of life of citizens will continue to be held as the guiding beacon for governance.
Truly, the unit of Canadian citizenship is neither you nor I alone, but you and I working together to achieve our common dream, the attainment of human dignity for all. This is the essence of the week. We can all take pride.