Mr. Speaker, I immigrated to Canada in 1970. In fact, many of my distinguished colleagues also came to Canada as immigrants or refugees.
Unfortunately, we continue to hear many people who pander and promote misinformation. They fear that immigrants and refugees are a drain on Canada and fail to contribute. The facts simply do not support this divisive and unhealthy point of view. Immigrants across Canada become small business owners, contributing substantially to our nation's economy and to our communities.
My riding of Calgary Skyview is among the most diverse in Alberta and one of the most entrepreneurial in the province.
Let me be clear. Canada's success, our success, is founded on the strengths of many peoples, many voices, and many points of view.
I am proud of all those who have made a better life for themselves and their families through hard work, contributing to a better Canada for all.
I have always believed that in Canada, opportunity is limited only by imagination and how hard people are willing to work.