Mr. Speaker, today I recognize and thank the many volunteers who are responsible for running our local food banks.
Last week I visited the eight food banks in my riding. It is sad to see that the government is still turning its back on the less fortunate of the country and is leaving them with no choice but to rely on food banks to feed their families. Without the hard work of many volunteers working in our local food banks many families would go hungry.
I take this opportunity to send my personal thanks to the following people with whom I had the pleasure to speak last week: Theresa Richard, Rosalie Richard, Noëlla Léger, Val Goodwin and Jennifer Blacklock, Janice MacKay and Joan Cant, Beryl and Car Kingston, Vicky Crossman and Malcolm Fife. I also give a special thanks to Phyllis Carter for volunteering her time for 11 years at the Sackville and District Assistance Centre.
As a member of the community, I want to thank the volunteers for the important work they are all doing. I know the hours are countless.