Mr. Speaker, today I rise in the House to pay tribute to an extraordinary individual.
Paulette Lalande truly left her mark on the Outaouais region. She was a teacher for 35 years and became involved in municipal politics in the Ville de Plaisance, in 1997. Over the course of her career she received a number of distinctions, including the Lieutenant Governor’s Seniors Medal and a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.
Dubbed, and commonly called, the premier of La Petite-Nation, she was the reeve of Papineau RCM for more than 15 years. Known for her strong presence and her frankness, she was never afraid to get to the bottom of things to defend the interests of our region.
Paulette, you are a role model for women in politics. You were guided by your heart in your political life. I wish you a happy retirement.