Mr. Speaker, on August 31, 2006, Laurent Leblond received the 2006 Héron d'or, a tribute awarded by the Rimouski international jazz festival. This public recognition serves to underscore Mr. Leblond's important contribution to the cultural spirit of Rimouski, and to the development and longevity of the jazz festival.
Mr. Leblond has been a journalist for nearly 40 years and has always made it his duty to draw attention to the cultural events in our vast region. His love of culture, and especially music, are no less than infectious.
I would first like to thank Mr. Leblond for his contribution to the enrichment of our cultural life in the Lower St. Lawrence. I would also like to shine the spotlight on his outstanding contribution to the longevity of the Rimouski international jazz festival, and finally, I would like to sincerely congratulate Mr. Leblond.