moved for leave to introduce Bill C-597, An Act to amend the Holidays Act (Remembrance Day).
Mr. Speaker, it is with pride and purpose that I rise today to introduce my private member's bill, an act to make Remembrance Day a national statutory holiday.
Similar versions of this bill have been introduced by the NDP member for Hamilton Mountain and by former Conservative MP Inky Mark. Petitions supporting this position have also been submitted by the member for Sarnia—Lambton.
Others were presented in 2010 and 2011 by the hon. member for Saint-Léonard—Saint-Michel.
It is time to reaffirm our commitment to our veterans.
At a time when the number of veterans of past wars dwindle, we are faced with the changing face of veterans, and 40,000 brave young women and men who have earned our gratitude and thanks.
It is time, on the 100th anniversary of the start of the war to end all wars, to rededicate ourselves to all those who have faithfully answered their country's call and come to help those in need.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)