Ernie Klassen

Mr. Speaker, I had the privilege of recognizing the incredible efforts of those involved in the Cops for Cancer tour as bike riders made their way through White Rock and South Surrey. For nearly 30 years, participants have cycled, raising funds for childhood cancer research and support programs. Students from Peace Arch Elementary and White Rock Elementary came out in full force, lining the route with cheers, signs and high fives to welcome the cyclists. Their enthusiasm was a powerful reminder of the strength of community when we come together for a cause greater than ourselves. White Rock RCMP Constable Carly Godlien rode in support of Caitlyn Sears, a courageous young girl undergoing treatment for leukemia. Thanks to the dedication of riders, volunteers, sponsors, educators, students and community supporters, more than $270,000 was raised to help those affected by cancer. I ask members to join me in thanking everyone who participated and supported this event.

Mr. Speaker, Canada will always protect our sovereignty and our fisheries, full stop. The Prime Minister has been clear. Details about any future arrangement with the European Union will be presented to all Canadians. The member is back to his old scare tactics, but our government is focused on growing Canada's seafood economy.

Mr. Speaker, as Parliament resumes, I am reminded that the strength of Canada is found in our communities. During the last few months, I met with local businesses, community organizations and residents, attended community celebrations, hosted several round tables and saw young people developing valuable skills and experience through the Canada summer jobs program. I had the privilege of participating in the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games. Watching my son compete alongside other athletes with disabilities was a powerful reminder that perseverance and teamwork are at the heart of the Canadian spirit. In Amsterdam, I represented Canada at a human rights conference where I was reminded that our country continues to be respected around the world for the values we uphold. As the Prime Minister says, Canada has what the world wants. That strength begins in our communities where Canadians show that when we work together, challenges can be overcome. Let us bring that same spirit of unity, pride, optimism and determination to this House. Let us work together and build an even stronger Canada.

Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate Pride season across Canada, we are reminded that the rights and freedoms many enjoy today should never be taken for granted. Around the world, identifying as 2SLGBTQIA+ remains illegal in 65 countries, and in 12 jurisdictions, individuals still face the death penalty simply for being who they are. I would like to recognize the work of the Canadian Pride Caucus, which is well known for its work here at home, but it is also playing an increasingly important international role. Through engagement with foreign parliamentarians, human rights defenders, diplomatic missions and civil society organizations, the caucus helps advance Canada's commitment to dignity, inclusion and protection of human rights on the global scale. I invite all colleagues from all parties to join us tomorrow at noon on Parliament Hill for the Pride flag raising. Let us come together to celebrate Pride season and reaffirm Canada's commitment to equality, inclusion and protecting human rights for all. I wish everyone a happy Pride.

Mr. Speaker, this week we celebrate National AccessAbility Week, which began in 1988. Inspired by Rick Hansen's Man in Motion World Tour, this week honours the contributions of Canadians with disabilities and reminds us that we can always build a more inclusive and accessible society. This year's Canadian theme is “Building a Strong, Accessible Canada.” More than eight million Canadians face barriers in everyday life. Many of these obstacles are built into our homes and workplaces. As the father of a son with a disability, and a friend of Rick Hansen and of Canada's first chief accessibility officer, Stephanie Cadieux, I have seen first-hand the importance of designing our communities equitably. This week, we celebrate the progress we have made so far and acknowledge the work of advocates whose leadership continues to break down barriers and inspire positive change. Together, we can continue building communities where everyone can participate and thrive. Let us create a fair and welcoming society for everyone.