Mr. Speaker, Monday, April 22 is Earth Day, a day to recognize the continuing care needed for the well-being of our planet, a day to recommit to making a difference locally and succeeding globally.
The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970 in the United States as a way to increase people's awareness of the environment. Now, more than six million Canadians will join some 500 million people in over 180 countries staging events, projects and addressing local environmental issues.
To commemorate Earth Day in Burlington, the 4th annual community clean-up challenge will take place on Saturday, April 20. All residents of Burlington are invited to join Mayor MacIsaac and me in collecting litter, improving and beautifying our city. We are encouraging individuals and local organizations to clean up their own neighbourhoods and improve our local environment.
I encourage all members of the House to organize similar events in their communities. Earth Day is a wonderful opportunity for family and friends to join together to care for our environment. We can make a difference.