Mr. Speaker, just recently we learned that a Canadian resident from Ottawa--Orléans, Dr. John Gilbert Chambers, died in a tragic car accident in New Zealand.
Dr. Chambers had an illustrious career as a scientist and a public servant. In the early 1960s he pioneered research in laser optics and he established the first fibre optic communications project in Canada.
As director general of Space Communications, he was instrumental in developing experimental satellite communications programs. He initiated cooperation between Canada and the European Space Agency. He also played a key role in the creation of the Canadian Space Agency in 1989.
After his retirement in 1996 he continued to be very active and appreciated as a consultant and adviser to the Canadian space program.
I wish to take this opportunity to extend my deepest sympathy to the Chambers family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with them. On their behalf I would also like to thank the minister and the Department of Foreign Affairs for their assistance and cooperation in this unfortunate matter. Their help was greatly appreciated by all.