Mr. Speaker, on January 16, 2014, our colleague and friend Francine Lalonde passed away. As a member in this House for 18 years, Ms. Lalonde dutifully represented the ridings of Mercier and La Pointe-de-l'Île. She passionately defended complex, sensitive issues such as the case of Nathalie Morin, who is still being held in Saudi Arabia with her children, and end of life care.
Francine was a caring woman and a fighter who battled bone cancer for over seven years. A committed sovereignist, she was well liked and respected both at home and abroad. She was a true inspiration for me, a model of courage and determination.
Farewell, my friend. I miss you already.