Chris d'Entremont

Mr. Speaker, today I would like to recognize the career of Colonel Luc Vachon as he prepares to retire from the Canadian Armed Forces, after 33 years of loyal, dedicated service to Canada. Throughout his career in the Royal Canadian Air Force, Colonel Vachon served with professionalism, integrity and distinction in a wide range of operational staff and command appointments, contributing to Canada's commitments both at home and abroad. As commander of 14 Wing Greenwood, he demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to the military members, civilian employees and families who served at one of Canada's most important air wings. I enjoyed working alongside him on projects that have benefited the military members and civilians in our region. His dedication has earned him immense respect in our community. On behalf of the residents of Acadie—Annapolis and all Canadians, I want to thank Colonel Luc Vachon for his remarkable service to our country and wish him every success and happiness in his retirement.

Mr. Speaker, my riding is proudly home to the largest lobster fishery in Canada, which creates thousands of good-paying jobs throughout Acadie—Annapolis. Our harvesters need safe and secure small craft harbours in order for their product to make it to markets. Can the Minister of Fisheries tell me how the spring economic update will affect seafood producers?

Mr. Speaker, supporting our military with our plan to rebuild, rearm and reinvest in our Canadian Armed Forces is a priority for our new government. Our riding is home to CFB Greenwood, the largest air base in the east coast. Federal investments will support paid infrastructure, RPAS drones and building 208 new housing units. As we strengthen our armed forces, could the Minister of National Defence outline the measures that our government is taking to support CAF members and families based across Canada?

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent Acadie—Annapolis, a predominantly rural riding in Nova Scotia that I have always called home. I recognize the value of small and medium-sized businesses, whether it is engaging with business owners or supporting them in my daily life. However, we know that rural business owners often struggle with less access to financing, smaller markets, a tighter pool of workers and longer supply chains. To the minister responsible for ACOA, how is the Government of Canada supporting small and medium-sized businesses in Acadie—Annapolis and in Atlantic Canada?

Mr. Speaker, on February 23, at the southwest African Heritage Month gala, it was an honour to present the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation to my friend Eric “Chuck” Smith. I have known Chuck for over 30 years. His service, leadership and vision have left a lasting mark on Yarmouth and far beyond. He embodies the very spirit of community. As a talented basketball coach, he gave time freely, helping young people build confidence, discipline and teamwork, and as a member of the board of the Nova Scotia Black cultural society, he advocates for the education, preservation and recognition of Black history and culture in our province. Chuck worked tirelessly to install a monument honouring the men of the First World War's segregated No. 2 Construction Battalion in the town of Yarmouth, where many of the soldiers were from. Through his leadership, passion and persistence, that vision became reality. Chuck's hard work ensured that the men of the No. 2 Construction Battalion are recognized. I thank Chuck for his commitment to honouring those who came before us.