Mr. Speaker, I would like to remind the House and all Canadians that the month of October has been designated Celiac Awareness Month.
Celiac disease is a condition in which the absorptive surface of the small intestine is damaged by a substance called gluten. This results in an inability of the body to absorb the nutrients necessary for growth and good health. According to current research statistics, close to one person in 200 may be affected by celiac disease, although most of them are not aware of it.
The Canadian Celiac Association is a national organization dedicated to providing services and support to persons with this disease.
I invite everyone to join with me in congratulating the many volunteers of the Canadian Celiac Association.