Mr. Speaker, first let me express my sadness and regrets after the tragic events of last night.
This month Sikhs in Canada and around the world are observing Vaisakhi, the 303rd birthday of the Sikh faith, Khalsa. The founder of the Sikh nation, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, preached equality, compassion, tolerance and human rights. It is important to affirm the diversity and tolerance that are so basic a part of our Canadian heritage especially following the terrible events of September 11.
I invite all my colleagues to participate in the Vaisakhi annual event immediately after question period today in the railway committee room from 3 p.m. to 4.30 p.m.
I wish to thank the Prime Minister, all members of the cabinet and my colleagues from all parties for their continued support and involvement with me since 1993.