Mr. Speaker, I would underscore today this government's lack of respect for the country's Acadians.
It is an insult to find that, for the second consecutive year, the Fête nationale des Acadiens is not acknowledged on the Canadian Heritage 2000 calendar. And yet, in 1999, Acadie hosted the francophone summit, and the Acadian flag was flown everywhere.
The Prime Minister campaigned among these same Acadians, who gave him their support, and today he is refusing to recognize them.
While this government is trying to convince Quebecers to stay in our country, it continues to show a lack of respect for the Acadians of this country. That is unacceptable.
I demand that the Minister of Canadian Heritage recognize the Fête nationale des Acadiens of this country and that she make a public apology. This government forgets that the Acadians helped build this country.
August 15 is the date of the Fête nationale des Acadiens of this country.