Mr. Speaker, I stand here today to remember the sacrifices and contributions made by British home children in the building of our great nation. It is estimated that 10% of Canadians are descendants of these home children. A large number of those descendants live in New Brunswick and in my riding of Fundy Royal.
Between 1868 and the 1930s, over 100,000 British boys and girls were sent to Canada for a brighter future. Some were orphans and many were poor. Once in Canada, many home children were sent to live on farms. Some found loving families, but others unfortunately suffered neglect, abuse, and intense loneliness.
There are monuments erected in several provinces in commemoration of these sacrifices, including one in New Brunswick at King's Landing Historical Settlement.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for allowing me to opportunity to share this piece of our history with the House and to remember the sacrifices made by British home children.