Mr. Speaker, I want to mark the 250th anniversary of Saint-Jacques, a wonderful municipality in my riding. This great little town is considered the cradle of New Acadia.
Founded in 1774, Saint-Jacques was a refuge for many Acadian families, who found there a welcoming and peaceful place after they were shamefully deported by the British Crown during the Great Upheaval. Nestled in the heart of Lanaudière region, Saint-Jacques is a lively community known for both its culinary delights and its rich history. It has an impressive built heritage and is also home to gems like Parc des Cultures, where one can admire an Acadian commemorative monument; various sculptures, each more beautiful than the last; and a bust of one of my mentors, a great Jacobin and former premier of Quebec, Bernard Landry.
I have a secret to share: Saint-Jacques's greatest asset is its people.
I want to wish all residents of Saint-Jacques a very happy 250th anniversary.