Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to pay tribute to a model Canadian and a great constituent from Hamilton West.
Back in 1997, Constable Michael Joy, an officer with the Hamilton-Wentworth Regional Police Service, received the Star of Courage, the second highest medal of bravery. Earlier today Constable Joy was again at Rideau Hall and became the first officer to be decorated with a second bravery award from His Excellency the Governor General.
These awards from the chancellery add to Constable Joy's numerous recognitions. He was awarded seven St. John's life saving awards, including the Priory of Canada. In 1996 he received the prestigious Ontario Police Medal of Bravery for which he has been nominated a second time. Constable Joy has also been nominated for this year's Canadian Police Association Top Cop Award.
On behalf of all hon. members in this House, I thank Constable Joy, the most decorated officer in Canada, for his dedication to the Hamilton community and to the people of Canada. Mike, thank you. Thank you for continuing to serve with distinction, courage and bravery.