Madam Speaker, today there will be hundreds of people who will not be anywhere near their sweethearts on Valentine's Day.
In ridings across the country, parliamentary spouses and partners are making many sacrifices to allow MPs to serve their constituents.
Our time with them is precious and our privacy rare. Our spouses inspire us, support us, stand by us and show their love in so many ways. In return we offer them crazy schedules, public scrutiny and many nights at home alone taking care of our families.
Tonight, while many Canadians are spending time with their sweethearts, we will pause yet again to give thanks to our loved ones, because we truly are the luckiest people around.
Today, one of our own, the member for Prince Albert, celebrates his wedding anniversary. To him and his wife Jerri, a special wish.
On this day, let me honour the sacrifices made by the spouses and partners of our diplomatic corps and our armed forces.
On behalf of all members, I would like to thank my wife Judite and all parliamentary spouses and partners for giving to Canada in the way that they do. They are the unseen and unsung heroes.
Happy Valentine's day.