Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of a remarkable woman who gave a great deal of herself to this House and her country.
Annette Leger passed away on February 23 in her native Moncton, her dear mother, Betty, nearby.
Annette had a long and notable career on Parliament Hill. She was the executive secretary to several members, Maurice Sauvé, Donald S. Macdonald, Lloyd Axworthy, Paul St. Pierre, as well as Postmaster General Eric Kierans, and House Sergeant-at-Arms Gus Cloutier.
Annette is best known for her work as the coordinator of the parliamentary page program from 1979 until she retired in 1994.
When she accepted the position, women were just starting to take their place as equals in the labour force, and that battle continues to this day.
Annette travelled the country to recruit young Canadians, looking for that special spark in them, the treasure of our country.
I ask all members of the House to join me in celebrating and acknowledging Annette's life and her deep service to this country.