Mr. Speaker, we already knew how generous federal public service employees are. Today, we have proof again. Contributions by public servants to the United Way of Ottawa campaign account for over one third of all the money collected. They have contributed more than $7 million of the $20 million collected.
Also, public servants exceeded their objective for Centraide Outaouais, contributing $2.2 million, or 50% of all the money collected.
The reasons for giving so generously are many. The common thread, however, is the desire to help Canadians. In their everyday work, our public servants help people in one way or another. Their contribution to United Way/Centraide is a visible extension of their generosity.
I want to congratulate all public service employees for their great generosity, and especially the organizers and many volunteers who give their time and energy to help improve the lives of many people in need. Too often we take for granted the professionalism of our public service.
Today, I would like us to acknowledge their great generosity.