Mr. Speaker, the summer presents a good opportunity to visit with our constituents and to participate in many events in our ridings.
This summer I had the opportunity to attend the Governor General's Caring Canadian Awards and Duke of Edinburgh Gold Awards ceremony in Moncton.
Paul Hanson of Northampton in Tobique—Mactaquac was honoured as a Caring Canadian for his tremendous service to his community, his church and to veterans, for which he also received the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation Award this year.
In addition, Roméo LaFrance was honoured for his long-term service to people with intellectual disabilities in the Grand Falls region.
Allison MacEacheron of McLeod Hill received her Gold Award based on activities that included her community service as a volunteer at the local seniors home.
These awards recognize the unselfish dedication of the people who give of their time to make our communities better places in which to live. What is also heartening is that young people gain a sense of community through the Duke of Edinburgh Awards.
I congratulate all the recipients and extend my heartfelt thanks to them for making a difference in the lives of others.