Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honour the Portuguese community in my downtown riding of Davenport. They are the largest ethnic group, representing approximately 30% of my riding.
The Portuguese culture is alive and well in Davenport and is being celebrated. Last month I had the honour of attending anniversary celebrations of two community organizations that exist to celebrate the distinct traditions in the Portuguese provinces of Beiras and Alentejo.
On February 13, Casa das Beiras hosted its 16th anniversary as a club, and on February 20, Casa do Alentejo celebrated its 30th anniversary.
My congratulations and deep gratitude go out to the leadership of these clubs, particularly to presidents Bernardino Nascimento and Carlos de Sousa.
These two ethnic clubs, along with Casa de Madeira, Casa dos Açores, Peniche, and Arsenal do Minho, have done tremendous work in Davenport in celebrating and promoting the cultural and social activities of the Portuguese community.
Their vibrant history and vital contributions to our cultural, economic, and social life are one of Canada’s great success stories.
[Member spoke in Portuguese as follows:]
Parabens Casa das Beiras et Casa do Alentejo!