Mr. Speaker, this week is White Cane Week. The white cane and the guide dog have come to symbolize every blind person's right to pursue and achieve a full and independent life.
They allow blind persons to travel safely, undertake gainful employment and fully participate in society. Canadian schools, institutions and business leaders should take the lead in ensuring full acceptance and equal opportunity for the blind in Canada.
Finally, I ask all Canadian citizens to recognize and respect the white cane and the guide dog as representing safety, dignity and self-help for the blind.