Mr. Speaker, it is with great emotion that I rise today to pay tribute to René Homier‑Roy, a cultural icon in Quebec, who has passed away at the age of 85.
For over six decades, he shaped our collective imagination. René Homier‑Roy talked about our culture, our literature, our films, our theatre and our artists on the radio, on television, and in his columns with a rare intellect, insatiable curiosity and great respect. His unique voice, which was both strong and warm, was part of the daily lives of generations of Quebeckers. On a more personal note, he taught me about our Quebec and Canadian culture and opened my mind to international talent. We have lost much more than a journalist or radio or television host. We have lost a voice that brought our culture to life and gave it the full recognition and dignity it deserves.
I want to express my sincere condolences to his family and friends, as well as to his colleagues at Radio-Canada and in the cultural community. Quebec and Canada are mourning the loss of a man who gave us so much. His legacy will live on—