Mr. Speaker, I have rarely met an elected representative at any level of government as attuned to the interests and concerns of her constituents as Maria Tutino.
Last week, Maria embarked on a well-deserved retirement from public life after serving the good people of Baie-D'Urfé for a decade and a half. Maria led this picturesque and volunteer-driven community with an inspiring combination of vision, energy and personal connection to her fellow citizens.
Maria's leadership also extended well beyond the town. She helped defend the interests of the wider collection of West Island municipalities in the transition period following the 2004 municipal demergers in Quebec. She also poured her trademark dedication into the Train de l'Ouest campaign for better commuter rail service to downtown Montreal that eventually led to the REM light rail project.
We thank Maria and congratulate her on a job well done.