Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to mark the commencement of the lunar new year by recognizing the spring festival in China, Seollal in Korea and the Tet festival in Vietnam.
Many across our country have been marking the arrival of the Year of the Ox, a symbol of honesty, hard work and perseverance, which are indeed fitting qualities to guide us all in the year ahead. Lunar new year is an opportunity for many Canadians to reflect on the immense and extraordinary challenges of the past year and to focus our gaze on ushering in new beginnings. It is also a time to connect with the elderly, relatives and friends.
On behalf of my riding of Willowdale, I wish all those marking this festive occasion a year filled with good health and also much happiness and success. While most have graciously avoided gatherings this year, I have no doubt that we will more than make up for it by celebrating bigger and brighter next year.
Gung hai fat choy; gong xi, gong xi; shi nian kuai le; seh heh mahn hee bah deux sayo.