Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Tartan Day in Canada, which is celebrated on April 6 because it is the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, the Scottish declaration of independence.
Tartan Day recognizes and celebrates the contributions of Scots and their descendants to the fabric of Canadian society. They played an important role in mapping the west and north, in running a railway across the country, in creating a system of national parks, and in establishing banks and universities.
Tartan Day gives Canadians a chance to enjoy Gaelic singing, highland dancing, piping, and other Scottish-themed events. If members enjoy Tartan Day celebrations, they should be sure to attend the Highland Games this summer in their areas. I'm especially looking forward to attending the Fergus Highland Games, which have been going strong since 1946 and which I have attended since the age of four.
Ceud mille failte, or I00,000 welcomes!