Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to John Rodriguez, one of the most colourful political figures this House and northern Ontario have ever seen.
John served as MP for Nickel Belt from 1971 to 1980 and from 1984 to 1993 and as mayor of Greater Sudbury from 2006 to 2010. John also held various occupations, but most notably those of teacher and principal.
An immigrant from Guyana, John made Canada his home in 1956, embracing all that Canada has to offer and embodying what our dynamic, multicultural society is all about.
Watching John interact with youth is truly inspiring. His capacity to communicate, motivate and spur their imagination is legendary.
John is an inspiration to me as well. His dedication to public service and to his beloved community of communities, that is, Greater Sudbury, has garnered him respect from all levels of government and all political parties.
On behalf of the NDP, I extend a heartfelt thanks for all John has done and continues to do. I know that my friend's work is not yet done.