moved that Bill S-215, An Act to protect heritage lighthouses, be read the first time.
Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure for me to rise today to table Bill S-215, An Act to protect heritage lighthouses. Despite broad support for this bill from all parties, similar legislation has failed in the past.
All but two provinces in Canada have heritage designated lighthouses, therefore making this a national issue. Without proper designation and protection, these important structures can be arbitrarily altered or disposed of without public consultation. Lighthouses hold significant historic importance and Bill S-215 will ensure that they are properly cared for.
I sincerely hope that members of the House can come together to pass this heritage lighthouse protection act.
(Motion agreed to and bill read the first time)