Mr. Speaker, the International Year of Older Persons 1999 celebrates the increasing importance of our older people in today's society.
To celebrate the occasion, VIA Rail Canada has just introduced its “Take a Companion Along For the Ride” program for seniors. This program allows a companion to travel free when a full fare senior ticket is purchased.
I would encourage all levels of government across Canada to offer some incentives to seniors during this special year for seniors. Various municipalities, including those in my riding of Bramalea—Gore—Malton—Springdale, for instance, should consider offering special public transportation programs to seniors. In that way we can show due respect to our seniors whose dedication and hard work over the years have made Canada the number one country in the world.