Mr. Speaker, Jacques Coté is an example of how one person can have a profound effect on a community.
After 35 years in the Royal Marines and Canadian Navy, this native of Quebec City relocated to Hearst and made that place his own.
Mr. Coté did not move to Hearst to relax. He dedicated his time to volunteering as chief administrative officer from 1979 to 1986 without ever counting his hours. That is when he realized that many seniors were struggling, which led him to propose the creation of the position of seniors' ombudsman.
He was mandated with protecting the interests of seniors, particularly our poorest seniors, and was the only person in northern Ontario to hold that position. The success he achieved in this role shows how important this position can be for the entire community.
After stepping down recently at the age of 82, it is clear his life has been defined by service to his country and his community.
Jacques Coté has made a significant difference to the lives of many and has shown us that we can all strive to make a difference.