Mr. Speaker, I grew up in Africa. I can personally attest to how Nelson Mandela is held in the highest regard for his contribution to the fight for human rights and dignity. His long and lonely fight for equality makes him a titan among not only world leaders but all citizens of the world.
As a member of the Canadian Alliance, where equality of all is the foundation cornerstone, I speak for the majority of our members in praising Mr. Mandela. However, I think the bestowing of honorary citizenship requires a procedure that all hon. members and all Canadians can support.
Motions put forward without debate robs us all of the opportunity to participate when such a high honour is contemplated. That is why I propose that the government set up an all party committee to lay the ground rules for such a high honour. The committee would continue to accept and ponder recommendations and debate the merits of each nominee.
I believe this way honorary Canadian citizenship would be widely supported by all Canadians and be seen as an honour coming from all corners of the nation.