Mr. Speaker, I want to sincerely thank all members of the House for allowing me the great honour of making this statement today.
Recently, Prince Edward Island lost a true gentleman and a hero to anyone who has ever battled addictions. Reverend Joseph Brady Smith faced his own fierce battle with alcohol in his early days, before he found his true calling.
I too faced my own fierce battle with alcohol, and Father Brady was there to help me in my time of need. He ended up helping countless individuals and families throughout his life.
Father Brady turned his struggles into his life's work and received the Order of Prince Edward Island for his compassion and dedication.
Father Brady was certainly one of the greatest people I have ever known, and he will be dearly missed. It was an honour to call him a friend.