Mr. Speaker, recently I had the opportunity to participate in a fire operations demonstration day hosted by the Kitchener Professional Firefighters Association at its official training site. Along with other local officials, I performed search and rescue in a smoke-filled building, entered a room fully engulfed in fire and performed an auto extrication. I wrapped up the day going up in the hundred-foot aerial ladder truck. They really put us through our paces, and we now know, beyond all doubt, why I am an MP instead of a firefighter.
I thank all our fearless firefighters, who put their lives on the line for us every day. I thank in particular the dedicated members of KPFA who volunteered their time to prepare the exercises and equipment, gave us the full experience and kept us safe throughout. Special acknowledgement goes to association president Brian Forbes, fire chief Bob Gilmore and my wrangler, Chris Vaux. What an educational and unforgettable experience.