Mr. Speaker, lunar new year has been celebrated on this land for as long as Canada has been a country.
When Chinese immigrants first arrived in British Columbia around the time of Confederation, they brought with them the traditions that were passed down for thousands of years: traditions of family, renewal, gratitude and hope. For over a century these celebrations have been part of Canada's history.
Today lunar new year is celebrated by millions of Canadians with roots tracing back to Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese descent, and it is embraced by neighbours and friends of every background. The values celebrated at this time of year, such as respect for elders and the generations before us, responsibility to family, generosity and community spirit, are also Conservative values. We believe that strong families build strong communities and that strong communities build a strong country. It is people, not big government, who empower society and shape our future.
To all people across Canada celebrating in 2026, I wish health, prosperity and happiness in the year ahead as we welcome the year of the horse.
Happy lunar new year. Gong hei fat choi.