Mr. Speaker, Canadians across the country celebrated Canada Book Day on April 27. To mark this event I had the pleasure of hosting my annual Canada Book Day luncheon on April 19 in my riding.
Attendees included renowned Canadian and local authors Christopher Moore, chairman of the Writers' Union of Canada, and Greg Gatenby, the founder of the Harbourfront Reading Series. Also in attendance were publisher Kim McArthur and Sheryl McKean of the Canadian Booksellers Association. A special guest appearance was made by Professor Stephen Leacock, also known as Neil Ross, while on his whirlwind tour to cheer up Canada and promote literacy.
Founded in 1976 the Writers' Trust of Canada has endeavoured to advance and nurture Canadian writers and Canadian literature. This national non-profit organization has, with Canada Book Day 2000, launched new programs through schools and libraries and a Canada Book Day coupon program.
This day also provides us with the opportunity to recognize the contribution writers make to the cultural richness of Canada and to pass on our previously loved books so that others may benefit.