Madam Speaker, I would like to congratulate the many talented professionals of the Canadian television industry who were recognized last night and during the weekend at the Gemini Awards, organized by the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television.
Since the eighties, the academy has honoured the outstanding achievements of Canadian television's brightest stars at the Geminis. The academy's efforts have brought well deserved attention to a national television system that is among the best in the world.
The Government of Canada is proud to support the Canadian television industry with policies and programs which encourage content of a truly national character. We commend these talented professionals for producing programming that is reflective of Canada and its culturally diverse heritage.
I ask members to please join me in congratulating the academy for another successful event as well as our many talented 2002 Gemini Award winners.