Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the important work being done in my riding by Safe Rail Communities and its founders, Patricia Lai and Helen Vassilakos.
Parkdale—High Park is bounded by no less than three rail lines. However, rail safety is not just a problem for residents in my community. It is a problem that affects all Canadians. The train that derailed in Lac-Mégantic while carrying highly combustible crude oil travelled through my riding and many other ridings in Canada.
On behalf of Safe Rail Communities and my constituents, Helen and Patricia are at the forefront of gathering information and urging government action on the issue of rail safety. They host community meetings and make deputations before standing committees.
The first petition that I will have the honour of tabling in this chamber will be from Safe Rail Communities calling for stronger regulation and more transparent information-sharing.
It is Canadians like Helen and Patricia who make our communities and country stronger and safer. I salute their efforts, and I urge all in the House to do so as well.