Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish a happy lunar new year, the year of the snake, to all those in the Korean, Chinese and Vietnamese communities.
Lunar new year is a beautiful, centuries old tradition, a festive time to be with family and friends and to celebrate a new year of possibilities. I am honoured that in my riding of Don Valley West, such a rich diversity of communities mark this special time and show that deep values of kinship and friendship are truly universal.
Don Valley West is home to the Korean Canadian Cultural Centre. I send a special greeting to all in the Korean community. With this being the year of Korea and Korean War veterans, I am certain that this lunar new year has special significance in celebrating not only a new year but also 50 years of diplomacy and shared history between Canada and Korea.
I hope that all enjoy time with their loved ones in celebrating the coming year of the snake. I wish everyone a prosperous and joyous year ahead.