Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to rise in the House today to recognize the residents of New Brunswick Southwest for their overwhelming support to the community of Deer Island following a devastating fire at the island's main employer, Paturel International, on March 1st.
On Firefighters on the Hill Day, I want to recognize and thank the first responders in my riding, as well as those across the country, who act so bravely and swiftly to keep us safe.
I would like to thank the management of Paturel International for its support to its employees; Darrell Tidd, a lead hand who volunteered to act as the official spokesperson; area employers, including Connors Brothers, Northern Harvest, and Cooke Aquaculture that offered employment to displaced workers; Service Canada; and the provincial government and agencies.
Despite these difficult circumstances, the kindness, resiliency, and community spirit demonstrated by everyone has created the most positive outcome possible.