moved for leave to introduce Bill C-608, An Act respecting a National Day of the Midwife.
Mr. Speaker, at a time when the health of mothers and children around the world is one of our biggest concerns, I am honoured to introduce this bill, which is calling for the creation of a national day of the midwife in Canada. I would like to draw attention to the hard work that the hon. member for Parkdale—High Park has done on this file.
Since 1991, the World Health Organization has recognized May 5 as the International Day of the Midwife, which is celebrated in more than 50 countries. There are over 1,300 midwives in Canada who support women in every region of the country during pregnancy, childbirth, and recovery. It is time to acknowledge the valuable contribution that midwives make to our society.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)