Mr. Speaker, March 31 is a historic day for the province of Newfoundland and Labrador and indeed for the country of Canada. It was on this day in 1949 that Newfoundland entered the Canadian Confederation as its 10th province.
On this day we all celebrate 54 years of Newfoundland and Labrador as a province of this great nation and all the benefits that come with being a citizen in the best country in the world in which to live.
Canadians look upon Newfoundlanders and Labradorians with great fondness. This has never been more evident than with the recent show of support for those who have suffered due to the terrible flooding in the small Newfoundland community of Badger.
As well, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have given so much to Canada: their infamous screech rum, the Torngat Mountains, Gross Morne National Park, Joey Smallwood, rich musical culture and their unmistakable sense of humour and brightness of spirit.
Of course the people of Newfoundland and Labrador did us all proud with the way they welcomed the passengers from diverted flights on September 11. They welcomed those people into their homes and into their lives.
On behalf of all members of the House, I would like to extend a heartfelt congratulations to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.