Mr. Speaker, now that we have just wrapped up the celebrations for St. Patrick's Day, today we celebrate an even more important saint.
He was a simple labourer who, since March 19, 1624, has been the patron saint of the best country in the world.
In fact, today we celebrate St. Joseph, the patron saint of Canada and, since March 19, 1860, the patron saint of Orléans. He is the chaste husband of St. Mary the virgin, adoptive father of the divine infant, patron saint of cabinetmakers, carpenters, confectioners, craftsmen, families, fathers, of course, pioneers, professional engineers, real estate agents, social justice, travellers and all working people.
Récollet missionary Joseph Le Caron chose St. Joseph as the patron saint of New France, which would later become Canada.
I am very pleased to wish all Canadians, and all residents of Orléans in particular, a happy St. Joseph's Day.