Mr. Speaker, this week is Small Business Week in Canada.
I myself have been a small business owner for over 30 years, and I am very proud of that. I am very proud because, for all those years, I have dedicated my life to doing what I love most, and that is giving back. Small business owners tend to be generous with their time and money. They share their innovative ideas and create wealth for all our communities. Small business owners are creators above all. They create wealth, jobs, attractive living environments, investments and community infrastructure by giving back. Their ultimate goal is to make their community a better place.
I salute the hard work of all these small business owners, who fight day in, day out to succeed, grow and thrive in a constantly changing world. Small businesses like mine, with fewer than 50 employees, are the backbone of this country. They never run short of challenges, but that is a good thing, because challenges breed innovation and excellence.
I wish all small businesses across Canada a happy Small Business Week.