Mr. Speaker, yesterday people across the world celebrated the festival of lights popularly known as Diwali.
Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness. As the Prime Minister said at the 14th National Diwali celebration in Toronto on October 18, many places in the world face darkness, and that is precisely why we need to celebrate Diwali: because Diwali reminds us that light always casts out darkness, that truth always dispels ignorance and fear.
In front of over 1,000 people and organized by temples across the GTA, at this year's 14th National Diwali Celebration the Prime Minister and the guests lighted the diya to symbolize light over darkness.
On Wednesday, for a brief period, darkness descended on the capital and Parliament. Through the collective role of Canadians, the light is shining again.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Corporal Nathan Cirillo and Warrant Office Patrice Vincent.
I wish everyone happy Diwali.