Madam Speaker, I begin by commending the government for resuming the practice of ministerial statements in the House of Commons. I hope the practice will be continued regularly throughout this conflict.
On behalf of the opposition coalition I extend to our Canadian armed forces our deepest thanks and our best wishes as they prepare to sail today in Operation Apollo. We are pleased to be represented at their departure by our defence critic, the hon. member for Saint John.
Members of the House will know that Edmund Burke once noted that the only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing. We make the decisions here as to what Canada should do, but it is our armed forces whose lives are on the line to fight the evil of terrorism. We are proud of the commitment and professionalism of our Canadian troops. They are in our prayers.
The men and women of the Canadian armed forces are setting out today on a vital mission, that of combating terrorism and protecting the values we hold most dear.
Freedom and democracy are the values on which our society was built and which have made Canada the envied nation it is today.
I say to the men and women who today are leaving the comfort of their homes and the embraces of their children and loved ones that the thoughts of Canadians accompany you on your journey. You honour us all and I thank you.