Mr. Speaker, this week as Ottawa hosts the annual Canadian Police Association Legislative Conference, I want to recognize outgoing Guelph police chief Jeff DeRuyter, who recently announced his retirement after 35 years of police service.
Jeff was committed to community engagement and attended many community events with his wife Connie, particularly in Guelph's many newcomer communities.
Guelph Police Service is a key partner in building a safer and more inclusive society. I want to thank Chief DeRuyter and the entire Guelph Police Service, including Matt Jotham and Alexandria Johnston, who are here in Ottawa this week, for all they do to serve and protect.
I extend a warm welcome and congratulations to the new chief of police, Mr. Gordon Cobey, who will be sworn in this Thursday. I look forward to working with him.
I thank the Guelph Police Service for all it does for our community.