Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 25th anniversary of the election of the member for Bas-Richelieu—Nicolet—Bécancour, who is the most senior member of this House.
He was elected in 1984, during the time of the “beau risque”, as it was called by René Lévesque. He has since been re-elected seven times.
The hopes of the “beau risque“ have long since faded away.
That ship sailed with the collapse of the Meech Lake Accord.
Our colleague recognized this and helped found the Bloc Québécois, a sovereignist party.
Despite appearances, he did not change parties, because he represents loyalty to the Quebec nation, a loyalty that only the Bloc enables him to fully express.
Our friend was elected eight times because he is always there for his constituents.
And 8,000 of them came to pay tribute to him in Sorel-Tracy on September 4.
We are proud to work alongside him, and to have him as chair of our party's caucus.
We pay tribute to him today for his loyalty to Quebec and his loyalty to his constituents and colleagues.