Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege today to rise and to remember the life of William Petten.
Bill Petten was a man who combined the best of Newfoundland with the best of Canada. With wit and wisdom he served in the Canadian Senate from 1968 to 1998. Bill's infectious sense of humour won him friends on all sides of both houses of parliament.
Senator Petten was instrumental in extending Canada's marine jurisdiction beyond 200 miles to the great advantage of his home province of Newfoundland and to all Canadians. Bill Petten was a friend and confidant of premiers, prime ministers and everyday Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
To his wife Bernice and his children, Sharon, William, Rob and Raylene, I offer our heartfelt condolences. Like you, we will always remember Bill in our hearts as a great member from Newfoundland.