#1. PIONEER FARMWORKER JAWAL SINGH GREWAL PASSES AWAY
Jawal Singh Grewal, 94, President of Canadian Farmworkers Union (CFU), passed away on Wednesday, July 2 at Surrey Memorial Hospital. He was President of the CFU for the last 10 years and his effort to improve farmworker’s working conditions is commendable. He was willing to sacrifice his life for the sake of the farmworkers.
Over the past 30 years he stood firm in his unconditional support despite being denied a job by many labour contractors. Through thick and thin he worked side by side with the CFU and was at the forefront to lobby the government and work with the trade union movement to protect and improve the rights of the farm workers. He remained calm even though a farmer pulled a gun on him in an effort to stop him from distributing CFU brochures.
Grewal is survived by five sons, seven daughters and over 40 grandchildren.
Charan Gill of PICS, CFU Secretary-Treasurer, said: “He lived a long and meaningful life and we are saddened to see him go. He was predeceased by his wife five years ago. We wish him peace and I hope that God has created as special a place for him as he has held in our hearts.”
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, July 6 at 12:30 p.m. at Riverside Funeral Home in Delta.
#2. TRANSLINK POLL SHOWS WIDE SUPPORT FOR NDP TRANSIT PLAN
A survey done last month for TransLink confirms that riders believe SkyTrain attendants are needed to address ongoing security concerns at stations, New Democrats said this week.
“The poll is very clear that people believe the best way to address the safety deficit on SkyTrain is to have live attendants at every station,” said Adrian Dix, the NDP MLA for Vancouver-Kingsway. “This poll tells me that transit riders endorse the 10-point plan to improve SkyTrain safety that we have been advancing. I certainly hope the new CEO for TransLink will take action.”
Bruce Ralston, the NDP MLA for Surrey-Whalley, noted that Surrey Central is the station with the highest level of concern. “People in Surrey are very concerned about safety issues. Yet the Campbell government continues to ignore Surrey and continues to fail residents.
When asked: “What specific changes should be made to improve your feeling of personal security (on SkyTrain)”, 52 per cent of telephone respondents and 58 per cent of on-line respondents expressed a desire for more SkyTrain attendants. Respondents also cited more SkyTrain police, security cameras, better lights and turnstiles as measures to increase security.
“Minister Falcon’s plan to install turnstiles rated far below attendants for the people surveyed,” said Dix. “Turnstiles are only part of the solution; the Campbell government needs to get moving on the other key elements required to improve security on our transit system.”
Dix also noted that a quarter of telephone respondents and a third of online respondents said they had decided not to use SkyTrain in the past due to concerns about personal security. “At a time when we are encouraging people to leave their car at home and ride public transit, the Campbell government’s lack of action is having a negative effect on our efforts.”
The survey also confirmed that women and people with disabilities have far greater concerns with transit safety.
“A significant number of people choose not to take transit for safety reason, including people in Surrey,” said Ralston. “Safety is therefore essential to promoting transit use, and the lack of action to improve security measures is a big problem for people trying to get around the city.”
The TransLink poll was conducted by NRG Research Group, and presented to TransLink on June 26.
#3. ANTHOLOGY OF HINDI WRITERS OF NORTH AMERICA
An anthology of Hindi writers of North America edited by Acharya Shrinath Dwivedi was well received in the literary circle of Ottawa.
Professor Jagmohan Humar organized a function last month to celebrate the publication of book “Uttari Amerika Ke Hindi Saahityakaar.”
“The most striking feature of this book is that it introduces the work of top ranking Hindi literary figures of North America in one place,” said Prof. Humar.
Prof. Humar and Prof. O.P.Dwivedi handed over the copies of the book to those who were featured in it.
Rashmi Rekha said: “This type of work generates interests and awareness of our rich literary heritage.”
Prof. Humar conducted the Kavi Sammelan in which Acharya Dwivedi, Aruna Gupta, Sarita Agarwal, Rashmi Rekha, Kanti Dwivedi, Vinod Kumar, Virendra Bharti, S. Lama, Satya and Humar recited their poems.
#4. SAFA SIGNS GIPPY GREWAL TO HEADLINE SAWAN MELA 2008
The South Asian Family Association announced this week that international bhangra superstar Gippy Grewal will be the star performer at their free festival, the 6th annual Sawan Mela.
Rupinder Singh Grewal is commonly known by his stage name Gippy Grewal. The talented Punjabi singer was born in Koom Kallan, Ludhiana, in Punjab and has been heralded a success by many of the industry’s biggest stars. With his solid vocals and raw poetic vibe, Gippy took the industry by storm with hits such as Mere Yaar Ne, Akh Larh Gayi, Manja and of course Phulkari which proved a huge hit between 2004 and 2005.
Recently, he released another hugely successful track called "Gabroo," a duet with his close friend Yudhvir Manak, the son of Kuldip Manak. In 2007, Gippy was back on the scene with the release of his sixth album titled "Chandi De Challe." This album featured hits Nasha, Jaan and Mitti.
Gippy arrives from India to take the Sawan Mela stage after recording his new and seventh album. Combining his old hits, with sure-to-be hits from this untitled album, Gippy appears on the Sawan Mela stage at the Sunset Community Centre, 6810 Main Street, in Vancouver at 6 p.m. on Sunday, July 13.
Sawan Mela is a celebration of cross-cultural harmony and the festival is entering its sixth year. This year, much to the Board of Directors’ delight, Sawan Mela has grown to a two-day celebration with an event at the Cloverdale Millenium Park on Friday, July 11 and the flagship event on July 13 in Vancouver.
Suki Grewal, President of SAFA, says: “I never imagined that we would be at this stage. Six years ago, our first event at Moberly Arts and Culture Centre had 250 people in attendance and today, we have grown so large that we have had to seek out larger venues in two different cities. We are very pleased that we have been able to, with the support of the cities of Vancouver and Surrey and all of our sponsors, provide quality family entertainment that showcases multiculturalism while promoting South Asian culture and focusing on positive South Asian images. When the youth see performers and artists giving their talent to the community, we hope that they will be inspired to do great things.”
Sawan Mela begins at noon and ends at 8 p.m. Taking the stage and celebrating their culture with us are the Violet Moore School of Dance, Lorita Leung Chinese Dancers and a fire-dance combined with belly-dancing performed by Zamir Dhanji and Company. South Asian acts are by Footedge, Suman Sargam School of Dance, UBC Giddha, Shaan Punjabna Di and bhangra by Punjab Cultural Arts Centre, SFU Elite, Bhangra Beat and Jawani. Musical performances include A-slam Productions and Bombay Sapphire with friends Jagua and Shez Khan. The day rounds out with various competitions. Applications are available on the SAFA website at www.safa.ca for roti-making, turban-tying and kara (water pot) race. There are many prizes to be won.
Treasurer Nina Sohi-Brar is very excited about a very special project that SAFA has commissioned to celebrate British Columbia’s 150th birthday. She says: “For the past two weeks, SAFA has called upon friends and perfect strangers in assisting us to put together a very special short film, a video birthday card, to celebrate our province’s milestone birthday. We invite everyone to the Cloverdale Millenium Park on Friday, July 11 from 6:30 p.m. onwards to enjoy performances by the Surrey India Arts Club and to watch this special birthday greeting. We are also showing a trailer for an upcoming release, “The Bhangra Generation” before our feature presentation of the movie, Sholay.”
Families are invited to this free event and are encouraged to bring their blankets, lawn chairs and be prepared for an experience that will be unforgettable.
The support of the community at large has been astonishing in response to these events, as indicated by Volunteer Co-ordinator Nancy Parmar. She says: “The events would not be possible without the tremendous support of our volunteer force and friends of SAFA. The SAFA committee has been working very hard to produce these events and hope you will all attend.”
Bollywood Under the Stars occurs on Friday, July 11, starting at 6:30 at Cloverdale Millennium Park on the corner of 176th Street and 64th Avenue in Surrey. Parking is available at the Cloverdale Rodeo.
Sawan Mela will be at the Sunset Community Centre, 6810 Main Street, Vancouver between noon and 8 p.m. on Sunday July 13.
For more information, visit www.safa.ca or call Suki at 778-688-3996.
#5. JAZZY B. IS BACK WITH RAMBO
The international Bhangra superstar Jazzy B. is back with a bang.
Rambo, the thrilling new album released today in Canada and around the world, marks a new chapter in the former Surrey, Canada based singer’s career. It is a follow-up to his multi-platinum selling album Romeo, which was released three years ago.
Jazzy B. and top Bhangra producer, music-maestro Sukshinder Shinda are in top form in Rambo, their 11th studio album collaboration. The result is pure high-end fusion where Shinda gives a taste of something new and something old, everything from salsa, hip-hop, desi folk and a lot of funk. And Jazzy shines with his golden vocal styling to create magic for his legion of fans.
Rambo is being released in North America by Toronto-based Canadian label Planet Recordz and Bobby and Harj Nagra. The album’s BC distributor is Golden Star Video.
Jazzy B. is a Made-in-Canada success story. He has taken the traditional sounds and lyrics of Punjabi folk Bhangra and infused it with western music for the younger generation. The New York Times has called him "The Michael Jackson of India."
His recent albums, Tera Roop, Naag and Romeo, have seen record sales in the millions worldwide.
Ever since his debut album "Ghuggian Da Jora" went on to unexpected success and made Jazzy the torch bearer for Punjabi youth abroad, his fan following - largely youngsters - quickly cemented with his truly breakout album Folk N’ Funky.
The 33-year-old singer was born in Durgapur, a village in Punjab, India. When he was five, he immigrated with his family to Surrey, where he graduated from Princess Margaret secondary school. He dreamed of being a singer from childhood.
Over the past 10 years, Jazzy B’s world tour stops have included India, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, Germany, Sweden, Dubai, Hong Kong and England. His biggest shows are in India where he has played in front of crowds of 70,000. His last Canadian tour also drew large crowds as he headlined shows with his mentor and producer – the “Music Man” Sukshinder Shinda.
#6. UNIVERSITY OF FRASER VALLEY STUDENTS IN INDIA CELEBRATE CANADA DAY
India's northern city of Chandigarh was in for an exciting surprise on July 1, as students from the University of the Fraser Valley's Canadian Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree program there organized a one-of-a-kind portable party to encourage locals to celebrate Canada's 141st birthday.
The entire student body was decked out in red and white and made the rounds to all local hot spots, holding flash mini-events, handing out prizes, and playing games like three-legged races, lemons and spoons, and 'Pin the Tail on the Beaver'.
"We have strong ties to Canada, and since British Columbia and Punjab are officially becoming sister states, we thought it was a terrific way to strengthen our cultural connection," says Manreet Sahi, a third-year student of the UFV BBA degree program and one of the event organizers. "We wanted to do something really fun and different that Chandigarh would not forget. We've received wonderful support from the city of Chandigarh, and we hope this new annual event becomes one that Chandigarhians really look forward to."
The group cut a giant maple-flavoured and maple leaf-shaped cake to wind up the day's exciting events.
#7. B.C. CONTINUES TO LEAD IN ATTRACTING NEW RESIDENTS
The latest figures from Statistics Canada show British Columbia continued to be a Canadian leader in attracting people from other areas of the country and the world during the first three months of 2008.
B.C.’s population grew by 1.5 per cent, or an estimated 14,383 people, during the first quarter of 2008, for a total population of 4,428,356.
“B.C. is a destination of choice for people to live, work and raise a family,” said Murray Coell, Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development. “B.C.’s economy, job options, low taxes and natural beauty are a strong magnet for people who want a better future.”
Immigration was a large factor in B.C.’s population growth, with 10,058 people coming from other countries, accounting for 18.9 per cent of Canada’s total immigrant arrivals.
The total number of newcomers to B.C. from elsewhere in Canada was 13,513. The largest number – 6,871 – came from Alberta; another 3,585 moved here from Ontario. Only Saskatchewan gained more people than B.C. due to interprovincial migration.
“B.C. is leading the nation in creating jobs, which makes us attractive to newcomers from the rest of Canada, as well as around the world,” Coell said. “We’ve reversed the exodus of the ’90s, with skilled workers and business immigrants from the rest of Canada and other countries now choosing B.C. as the best place on earth to build prosperous lives.”
#8. GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES CONSULTATIONS ON IMMIGRATION PRIORITIES
Citizenship and Immigration Minister Diane Finley on Thursday released details of consultations on Canada's immigration priorities, following the passage of changes to Canada's immigration legislation under Budget Bill C-50.
The new immigration law gives the minister the authority to issue instructions on which categories of applications are prioritized, returned with a refund or held for future consideration.
The new law is intended to stop the growth of the backlog of applicants so that, ultimately, people who want to come to Canada receive a decision within six to 12 months instead of the six years it can take now. The new law also more closely aligns Canada's immigration system with labour shortages so that immigrants who come to Canada will have more opportunities to find employment in their chosen fields.
The consultations will focus on identifying critical occupational shortages, the role of immigration in responding to them, and any barriers to foreign credential accreditation. They will help develop instructions to immigration officers on which applications are identified for priority processing, particularly in the federal skilled worker category.
"The changes to Canada's immigration law allow us to bring to Canada more quickly those immigrants with the skills that match Canada's labour market needs," said Finley. "We are now consulting to make sure we accurately define those needs. This will help our economy and help newcomers better support their families."
Beginning July 7, the department will consult with all provinces and territories, as well as key stakeholders, through a series of face-to-face meetings and videoconferences. A consultation schedule is attached. Representatives from business, labour, and academic and non-government organizations will be invited to these sessions.
The minister will also consult national stakeholders at a roundtable in August. Other organizations or interested individuals who wish to provide input can submit their feedback online at www.cic.gc.ca until the end of July.
"We committed to consulting across the country and we are delivering on that commitment," said Finley. "I believe this inclusive approach will help identify the categories of workers who get priority, and will allow us to prepare instructions that reflect the knowledge and expertise of the provinces, territories and stakeholders."
Following consultations, the instructions will be published in the Canada Gazette and available on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website at www.cic.gc.ca. They will also be tabled in Parliament as part of the Annual Report on Immigration.
To meet the 2008 immigration plan, which calls for the admission of 240,000 to 265,000 new permanent residents, CIC missions around the world continue to process applications submitted before February 27, 2008, the date the legislation takes effect. With wait times exceeding six years in some categories, few missions are currently processing applications received in 2008, which is expected to be a transition year.
The legislation will not affect agreements with the provinces to process provincial nominees or, in the case of Quebec, Quebec skilled workers. It cannot affect refugee protection, nor is it intended to affect the goals for family reunification. This means CIC continues to process applications in those areas in the usual way.
Applications from federal skilled workers who already have a job arranged for them when they arrive will also be processed. Other applications received on or after February 27 in the federal skilled worker category will be considered for possible processing once the instructions are issued.
Consultation sessions themselves will not be open to the general public or media. Documents that form the basis of the consultations are attached and available at www.cic.gc.ca.
#9. ‘JUST BE YOURSELF’ NOT VIEWED A VIABLE OPTION IN WORKPLACE
According to a new study examining workplace fit and stereotyping in corporate Canada, many visible minority managers, professionals and executives believe that they need to "Canadianize" themselves in order to get ahead. For some that means downplaying ethnicity and speaking English or French without an identifiable accent in order to succeed in the Canadian workplace, the study reveals.
In this fourth report of its groundbreaking research series on visible minorities in corporate Canada, Career Advancement in Corporate Canada: A Focus on Visible Minorities - Workplace Fit and Stereotyping, Catalyst identifies issues that impact career advancement for visible minorities, focusing specifically on crucial aspects of how these groups fit into the work environment, what they experience as stereotyping, and how they are perceived as leaders.
The Catalyst study underscores that visible minorities are critical to the performance of Canadian companies and firms in an increasing global and competitive marketplace, now and in the future. With this in mind, the report provides recommendations on how Canada's largest businesses can create inclusive environments in which visible minorities and the organizations which employ them can succeed in better utilizing their talents and reap the full benefits of diversity.
"As Canadians, we celebrate all that diversity brings to our country and communities," said Deborah Gillis, Vice President, North America, Catalyst.
"But when the message delivered to visible minorities working in our largest businesses is that they must blend in to get ahead, the potential to fully leverage diversity as a source of competitive advantage is being compromised."
Key findings from the study include:
- Advancement for visible minorities may necessitate their downplaying aspects of their cultural background, such as having an identifiable accent that does not "fit" the prevailing image of leaders in their organizations.
- Some East Asians and South Asians who felt they understood Canadian idioms and were familiar with Canadian culture, particularly those whose families had been in Canada for generations, expressed comfort with how they fit within Canadian business organizations. However, other visible minorities stated that their chances of acceptance and promotion at work are tied to how "Canadianized" they are.
- East Asians reported being stereotyped as "hard working but not sociable" while South Asians reported being considered "outsiders" and "foreigners" in spite of the length of time they had spent in Canada.
- Blacks faced a dramatic difference in workplace challenges as compared to their South and East Asian colleagues. More negative stereotyping and an extremely limited number of similar role models combined to create a sense of isolation and limited opportunities for black managers, professionals and executives.
- In multicultural workplaces, "political correctness" can impede advancement of visible minorities to the extent that it makes it difficult for organizational members to address arising tensions.
- While many organizations are committed to building inclusive work environments, imperfect execution of diversity programs can hinder career advancement for visible minority managers, professionals and executives. An added barrier is that white / Caucasians are more likely to believe that diversity efforts are successful than are Blacks or Asians.
"The market has diversified extensively in the last five years," said Zabeen Hirji, Chief Human Resources Officer at RBC, the lead sponsor of the study, "And we've understood that to serve the market, we need to hire the market. Companies with talent management systems that capture the full value of diversity are more likely to attract and retain the best. Achieving full diversity is a journey that requires ongoing dialogue and focus inside organizations and across our communities. As the Catalyst study shows there is still a great deal of work to be done."
To help Canadian organizations fully leverage the diversity and talent of their visible minority employees, Catalyst recommends:
- Organizations create inclusive environments where visible minorities can spend less time focused on overcoming stereotypes and more time on contributing to organizational performance. Senior leaders can develop inclusive workplaces by building a strong business case, addressing the concerns of majority groups, and ensuring that leadership competencies are clear and allow for a variety of styles.
- Recognize that negative stereotyping exists in the workplace and address it. Avoid political correctness or politeness as a barrier to dealing with this problem.
- Visible minorities should aim to familiarize themselves with their organizations and be prepared to navigate less-than-perfect workplace environments. Changing an organization is a long-term activity, and realistically many visible minority managers, professionals and executives will find themselves employed in business organizations that are less than fully inclusive.
RBC is the study's lead sponsor. Deloitte and Touche LLP and IBM Canada are the participating sponsors. The Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration is the supporting sponsor.
To review the Catalyst study and a complete account of recommendations, visit www.catalyst.org.
#10. INDIA: OVER FOUR DETAINEES KILLED BY COPS DAILY
The World Sikh Organization (WSO), expressing disappointment at India's continuing disregard for human rights, said it was not surprised by the latest findings on India's atrocious human rights record by the Asian Center for Human Rights (ACHR).
In its report, "Torture in India 2008: A State of Denial," the ACHR reported that between 2002 and 2007, 7 468 people died or were killed in police custody across India. At least an equal number died in the custody of the Armed Forces. Many of these deaths were attributed to torture, which the ACHR says is widespread across India.
According to the ACHR, the response of Indian authorities to claims of torture and custodial deaths has been almost non-existent. In other words, killing of detainees by police and military is normal business and does not warrant any response.
India's abysmal human rights record has been under scrutiny lately. On April 7, 2007, the New York-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) called on the UNHRC to demand that India accept the recommendation of various government-appointed experts and repeal the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, "which has allowed widespread human rights violations by security forces with impunity" as well as immunity clauses in Indian law.
The WSO said it has been highlighting and documenting India's poor human rights record for the last 24 years. There were thousands upon thousands of custodial deaths in Punjab throughout the 80's and the 90's. Even prominent human rights activists like Jaswant Singh Khalra, whose focus was on documenting custodial deaths in Punjab, were not spared. Khalra became a victim in 1995, when he was picked up by the Punjab Police, and tortured and killed in custody. While junior Punjab Police officials were convicted of his killing in 2005, senior officials like KPS Gill implicated in the case roam freely.
"We welcome this report and hope that many people, dazzled by India's economic progress would take a breath and take notice of India's horrible human rights record, and deplore the ugly reality inside India,” said Gurpreet Singh Bal, WSO Canada President.
The ACHR report has called India's stance on torture "indefensible", and pointed out that India has continued to ignore repeated recommendations aimed at eradicating torture. These include passing a national law against torture and ratifying the United Nations Convention Against Torture, which India is a signatory to, but has not ratified. India also holds the record for refusing an invitation to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Torture for the longest period of time, since 1993.
Commenting on the report, Gian Singh Sandhu, WSO's Senior Policy Adviser, expressed disappointment at the fact that there has thus far been no accountability for human rights abuses in India. It's clear that India will not hold the perpetrators of these crimes against humanity accountable. It's up to countries like Canada and other Western nations, which do business with India and have some clout, to hold India accountable.
Sandhu urged Canadian politicians to not let economic interests override human rights concerns. He said: "India has seen tremendous economic progress over the last decade, but this has not translated into any positive impact in the area of human rights. Canadian politicians must strive to ensure that fundamental human rights and basic liberties are upheld, not only in Canada but in every country they do business with."
#11. PAKISTANI-CANADIAN CHRISTIANS HAPPY AT RELEASE OF HOSTAGES
On June 21, a mob of militants attacked a gathering of local Pakistani Christians who were congregating for a Christian worship service in Peshawar in the North West Frontier Province of Pakistan and abducted 16 of them at gunpoint.
According to a statement issued by Pakistani-Canadian Christians in Toronto, they were abducted by an Islamic extremist group, ‘Lashkar-e-Islam’, (Army of Islam), the group originally a part of the ‘Taliban’, operates in Pakistan under the name ‘Lashkar-e-Islam’.
The government of Pakistan, the provincial government of NWFP, the local church leadership and the Christian political leadership took this incident seriously. The provincial administration suspended top police officials such as the Senior Superintendent Police (Operations), Peshawar, Superintendent of Police, Peshawar Cantonment, Assistant Superintendent Police, Hayatabad, Station House Officer, Hayatabad, along with other senior law enforcing officials.
The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Yousaf Raza Gillani, condemned the abduction and ordered a federal enquiry. The Chief Minister of NWFP, Ameer Hoti, worked tirelessly and diligently to get the abducted Christians freed.
On June 24, the advisor to the Prime Minister on Interior Affairs Rehman Malik informed the National Assembly that the Christians abducted from Peshawar had been released as a result of serious negotiations with the abductors operating in Bara and Khyber district.
The news was welcomed by the local Christian community along with the Christians of Pakistani origin living abroad.
“The release of the abducted Christians is a miracle and an answer to the prayers of millions,” said Shadab Khokhar, National Chair of International Christian AWAZ, Canada, who led a delegation on June 24 to meet the Consul General of Pakistan, Toronto, Tassaduq Hussain, and handed him a petition in which they expressed their appreciation for what the Pakistani government and the NWFP government had done.
The members of the delegation also included Kenneth Irshad, James Malik, Rev. Wilson Nazim, and Rev. Carol Patrick.
“The Pakistani Christians are indebted to the government of Pakistan for getting the abducted Christians released from the militants, but an atmosphere of terror and fear has been further enhanced for the Christians living in Pakistan and specifically in the province of NWFP,” said Khokhar.
The delegation drew the attention of the Consul General to incidents across the NWFP, where Christians have been intimidated, harassed and threatened to convert to Islam or leave the province. The Pakistani Christian community is worried and nervous as ‘Zero Tolerance’ towards non-Muslims is being preached from the loud speakers of the mosques across Pakistan. ‘Convert to Islam or Leave Pakistan’, is the new slogan of the fundamentalists.
On June 23, Tailban representative Abdul Karim held a press conference at the Bara Press Club, near Peshawar, and stated that the kidnapping was the result of a misunderstanding and apologized on behalf of the organization’s local director Mangal Bagh.
The Pakistani Consul General was very receptive and strongly condemned the abduction, calling it an inhumane, criminal act intended to destabilize the government. Hussain assured the delegation that the petition and the concerns of the Pakistani Christian community living in the Greater Toronto Area will be passed on to the foreign office in Islamabad.
On June 30, the delegation distributed sweets to the Pakistani Consulate staff to show their appreciation.
#12. GET READY FOR HYDRO INCREASES, WARNS NDP
As British Columbians get walloped by Gordon Campbell’s new fuel tax, New Democrat energy critic John Horgan is warning that hydro costs are also on their way up thanks to Campbell’s privatization agenda.
“As if fuel costs aren’t bad enough, Campbell’s agenda to privatize hydro will also increase your electricity costs,” said Horgan. “Whether you heat your home with oil, natural gas or electricity, Gordon Campbell is taking a big hit out of your family’s income.”
Horgan pointed to a recent report prepared for Pacific Gas and Electric, a California utility investigating the possibilities for access to B.C.’s electric power, which found that by 2016 B.C. will have a huge surplus of electricity.
“Gordon Campbell wants you to believe that we need his private power projects because there is a looming electricity shortage in B.C.,” said Horgan. “Nothing could be further from the truth. According to BC Stats, we are net exporters of electricity – we don’t need to purchase expensive private power that will further drive costs up for consumers.”
Horgan said the California report and the government’s own statistics prove what the NDP has been saying for the past two years: Gordon Campbell is creating an artificial crisis to support his plans to privatize B.C. Hydro.
“It’s time for Campbell to listen to British Columbians. We don’t need or want private hydro production that harms our rivers and drives up electricity costs,” he said. “What we need is a green energy plan that focuses on public power run by B.C. Hydro on behalf of all British Columbians.”
According to B.C. Hydro, on April 1 hydro rates increased 6.56 per cent, and will rise a further 8.21 per cent next year. The inclining block tariff which is currently before the B.C. Utilities Commission will lead to further cost increases for those who heat their homes with electricity.
#13. NEW TAX CUTS FOR BRITISH COLUMBIANS BEGINNING JULY 1
Starting July 1, British Columbians started paying less income tax thanks to tax cuts made possible by the revenue-neutral carbon tax, Finance Minister Colin Hansen announced this week.
By law, government must show how every dollar generated by the carbon tax will be returned to British Columbians through lower taxes. Over the next three years, the government will reduce personal and corporate income taxes by more than $1.8 billion, the same amount estimated to be raised through the revenue-neutral carbon tax.
“We are the first jurisdiction in North America to implement a revenue-neutral carbon tax, and by 2009 the planned income tax reductions will give the majority of British Columbians the lowest personal income taxes in Canada,” said Hansen. “The introduction of the carbon tax has a number of benefits for B.C. residents that include both more money in their pockets and a greener future.”
The revenue-neutral carbon tax allows British Columbia to reduce taxes for individuals, families and businesses. Added to the government’s tax reductions since 2001, the changes in Balanced Budget 2008 will give British Columbians, by 2009, the lowest personal taxes in Canada on incomes up to $111,000.
Effective July 1, personal and corporate income tax changes include:
* Personal income taxes are reduced by 2 per cent for 2008. However, most people will notice a four per cent reduction in provincial tax on their paycheques as the rate cut is applicable to the entire year, but being condensed into six months;
* General corporate income tax rates fall to 11 per cent from 12 per cent; and,
* Small business tax rates drop to 3.5 per cent from 4.5 per cent.
In addition to the income tax cuts, the new Low Income Climate Action Tax Credit will provide lower-income individuals and families with an annual payment of $100 per adult and $30 per child in 2008 or $100 for the first child in a single parent family. In 2009, the tax credit will rise to $105 per adult and $31.50 per child and will be reviewed annually to ensure it continues to help low-income British Columbians offset the cost of the carbon tax. The tax credit will be paid quarterly along with the federal GST payment.
“These are significant savings that will ensure the vast majority of British Columbians come out further ahead after the carbon tax is implemented,” added Hansen. “However, lower income taxes are not the only means we have to offset the carbon tax. The carbon tax was designed to spark lifestyle changes that will reduce carbon emissions and build a cleaner future. Already, we see this happening, and the hope is that people will continue to take personal actions that will reduce their impact on the environment and save money at the same time.”
Further information on the tax cuts made possible by the revenue-neutral carbon tax is available at http://www.fin.gov.bc.ca/scp/tp/climate/carbon_tax.htm
#14. METRO VANCOUVER TO YOU: DRINK FROM TAP, NOT BOTTLE!
How should we quench our thirst in a heat wave?
Metro Vancouver encourages residents to drink the water that comes out of a tap, instead of spending their money on expensive bottled water.
“People realize our water is the best in North America and all you have to do is turn on the tap,” said Metro Vancouver Director Tim Stevenson, who chairs the regional government’s water committee.
“There’s no need to buy bottled water. If you’re going to the beach, just pour some Metro Vancouver water into a container and bring your tap water with you.”
According to a U.S. beverage industry publication, U.S. consumers spent almost $17 billion last year on bottled water.
A 20 per cent reduction of bottled water purchases by 2010 is one of the targets of Metro Vancouver’s new Sustainability Framework, a 31-page booklet made public last week. The region has also made commitments and set deadlines for other issues, including actions about waste, energy and greenhouse gases.
Residents can also help conserve water by using the resource wisely. A few examples: sweep your driveway instead of hosing it down; after your children have finished playing in an inflatable pool, re-use the water by draining it in a garden.
Information about water conservation and the Sustainability Framework is posted on Metro Vancouver’s website, at metrovancouver.org.
#15. EXPANDED SCREENING TO IMPROVE HEALTH OF B.C. BABIES
Newborn babies in British Columbia will now be screened for more than three times as many disorders at birth that can be treated to avoid lifelong health issues, Premier Gordon Campbell announced this week.
“Newborn babies in British Columbia deserve the very best chance to a healthy life – that is why we are increasing the number of tests at birth to screen for 19 disorders, up from six,” said Premier Campbell. “Screening newborns means earlier detection of treatable disorders. With specialized treatment, lifelong health problems such as development disorders, liver problems, brain damage, and even sudden death can be prevented, meaning a healthier life for newborns, and reduced future pressures on our health care system.”
The decision to expand the province’s newborn screening is based on the recommendation from the Newborn Screening Advisory Committee, established by the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA). Members of the committee include medical experts from BC Women’s Hospital & Health Centre and BC Children’s Hospital, agencies of the PHSA.
Technological advances and improvements in diagnosis and treatment have provided an opportunity to add new conditions to the screening panel, using the same conventional filter paper blood spot card. The expanded program will include screening for cystic fibrosis and sickle cell disease. The expansion will be phased in over the next 12 months with full implementation expected by 2010.
“The decision to broaden the screening program was made after a careful review of the medical literature on newborn screening,” said Dr. Hilary Vallance, director of the Biochemical Genetics laboratory at BC Children’s Hospital and BC Women’s Hospital & Health Centre and chair of the Newborn Screening Advisory Committee. “We were looking for the answers to two fundamental questions for each disorder reviewed: what is the expected health benefit to the newborn, and what is the best screening strategy to detect the most cases while minimizing the false positive rate?”
One of the positive outcomes that resulted from the review process was a strategy to minimize the recall rate or false positive rate. This will be achieved by a two-tier screening approach. B.C. will be one of the first jurisdictions in Canada to implement a suite of second tier screening tests aimed at minimizing false positive rates.
With a few drops of blood collected on a filter paper card, about 42,000 babies are screened each year. Approximately 20 children a year are identified with one of six treatable conditions. The additional screening is expected to benefit another 20 children a year.
“Expanding the new screening program is a strategic priority for the Provincial Health Services Authority,” said Wynne Powell, chair of the PHSA Board of Directors. “While the conditions are rare, the pain and suffering for the children and families can be immense.”
The implementation and operation costs for the newborn screening program will be covered by the Provincial Health Services Authority from their existing funding allocation. Implementation will cost approximately $2.3 million in capital investment and annual operating costs of approximately $2 million once the program is fully implemented. The implementation phase will start this year to build additional capacity, integrate a new software system, and ensure testing facilities are in place. This will include the co-ordination of regional services, including sample collection, transportation, parent education and follow up.
The program builds on government’s early childhood screening program commitment. The province has already implemented three early childhood screening programs: early hearing screening in all neonatal intensive care units and most well-baby units in hospitals across the province, with full implementation expected by year end; early childhood dental screening that includes screening surveys for kindergarten children; and vision screening for kindergarten children with an expected roll out to three-year-olds.
#16. CUTS TO ISLAND CARE BEDS SPARK OUTCRY
BC Health Coalition members and concerned citizens from around Vancouver Island met in Nanaimo this week to speak out against the recent Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) decision to close 350 public long-term care beds and replace them with beds operated by private, for-profit companies.
The meeting was the latest in what has become a province-wide public outcry over cuts to vital health care services on Vancouver Island and the provincial government’s failure to deliver on its promise of 5000 new not-for-profit long-term care beds.
Some 800 Port Alberni residents filled their local high school on June 24 while Duncan saw a local church filled to capacity at a June 29 Town Hall meeting.
“The Cowichan Valley is on fire about this,” said Bob Smits of the Mid-Island Health Coalition after last night’s meeting. He said that Vancouver Island regional health coalitions and seniors’ groups will be out in force at the July 30 VIHA Board of Directors meeting in Qualicum Beach.
The Vancouver Island health care activists are being supported by hundreds of citizens from all over the province who are voicing opposition in e-mail messages to health minister George Abbott and VIHA CEO Howard Waldner through an on-line campaign coordinated by the BC Health Coalition.
“British Columbians are clearly opposed to this shameful decision,” said BCHC Co-chair Joyce Jones, who noted that Statistics Canada data shows BC has the lowest number of residential care beds in the country – 36.5 per 1000 seniors over 65, compared to the national average of 47.1.
“We need to put pressure on VIHA and the province to ensure that Vancouver Island long-term care facilities and beds remain open and that the government lives up to its 2001 election promise to create 5000 new not-for-profit long term care beds,” she said.
“Seniors and people with disabilities deserve high quality, public facilities. They do not deserve to be shuffled into beds designed to make profits for corporate shareholders.”
#17. NDP SLAMS LIBERALS FOR PROMOTING OFFSHORE OIL AND GAS
New Democrat energy critic John Horgan says it is astounding that Gordon Campbell’s new finance minister is continuing to promote offshore oil and gas exploration.
“The hypocrisy is overwhelming,” says Horgan. “Campbell wants us to believe he is serious about climate change, yet this morning Finance Minister Colin Hanson continued the Campbell government’s campaign to lift the moratorium on offshore oil and gas.”
Hansen was quoted this week complaining it is unfair for the federal government to allow oil drilling on Canada’s east coast, but not on the west coast. He claimed that his government’s continued opposition to an offshore oil and gas moratorium is not a contradiction, saying: “Let’s minimize our personal consumption of fossil fuels. At the same time we still need to ensure that we explore and develop; let’s do it in way that’s environmentally sound.”
“What a joke,” said Horgan. “Campbell claims he cares about the environment, but he’s prepared to risk our ocean ecosystem for more fossil fuels and more profits for big oil.
“This hypocrisy isn’t much of a surprise,” said Horgan. “Campbell has already made it clear he wants average families to pay a fuel tax while oil and gas companies get the largest subsidies ever."
Carole James and the NDP support the offshore oil and gas moratorium that is in place to protect B.C.’s west coast marine ecosystems.
#18. CALL FOR COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE RESEARCH CENTRE
The Malony Shrivastava Memorial Foundation brought together, on June 24, prominent researchers, donors and financiers of health research, including from the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, InspireHealth, and the Hecht, Michael Smith and Canadian Breast Cancer Foundations to a Roundtable on Adjuvants to Standard Treatment of Cancer and other aspects of complementary and alternative medicine research.
The focus of the discussions was on how to integrate the natural processes and substances that prove beneficial into the mainstream of patient care and prevention. The absence of methods and techniques and funding to enable prospective or retrospective studies was pinpointed despite growing number of anecdotal accounts of significant benefits to patients. Needed are the development of methods, techniques and strategies to quantify qualitative benefits to patients, so that studies could be published in reputed journals and thereby pave the way for more natural methods, and substances to be used more widely. The participants felt that the passion, competence and energy in BC could be facilitated through the Centre to make BC a world leader on comprehensive care.
The eminent group of researchers and stakeholders called for the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in British Columbia to enable clinical research and other studies to assess efficacy of natural substances and methods to move forward, and to network the various researchers in the province.
Dr. Alison Buchan, Senior Associate Dean of Medicine, UBC, inaugurated the roundtable and welcomed the participants.
Dr. Nandlal Tiwari from Jaipur, India, speaking by Skype, was a physician of Malony Shrivastava, the late wife of the foundation's founder, Praveen Shrivastava, and had treated her with Carctol, a combination of eight different medicinal herbs, along with Malony's standard chemotherapy for cancer from the BC Cancer Agency. Dr. Tiwari stated that he was seeing remission in about 30-40% of patients with Carctol, and that Carctol has been administered to over 10,000 patients in India, UK and other countries where satisfactory to excellent results were found on quality and quantity of life.
Praveen Shrivastava provided moving testimony on how well Malony was doing while on the combination of standard chemotherapy and Carctol. A TV interview of Malony was played for the audience, where the patient herself described her coping skills using natural methods and substances, thereby enabling her to have had a better quality of life than many other breast cancer patients.
Dr. Sunil Chacko, the foundation's Research Director, made a presentation on the state of natural health products and processes clinical trials, and urged that more clinical research be conducted to assess efficacy and effectiveness, including phase IV-equivalent prospective studies for natural products already being used by patients. Toxicology studies have been conducted for Carctol in the UK and India.
Adrian Dix, M.L.A., Opposition Health Critic, stressed the value of research weight brought to bear by the efforts of the Malony Foundation. Dr. Arun Chockalingam, Michael Smith Foundation and SFU, Dr. Hal Gunn, Medical Director of InspireHealth, Jim Dao, Founder of Genyous, Dr. Jean Paul Collet and Professor Carolyn Gotay, UBC, Julie McMillan, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, Maureen Edwardson, Inner Resonance Technologies, Dr. Amandah Hoogbruin, Kwantlen University, Dr. Emma Tomlinson Guns, VGH, Paula Brown, BCIT, Carole Robert, BDA Foundation, Montreal, Dr. Julius Halaschek-Wiener, BC Cancer Agency, Sandra Mills, BC Cancer Society, Prateek Juneja, UBC, Dr. Cynthia Hamilton, VCHRI, Dr. Suzanne Slocum, UBC, were other speakers and discussants.
#19. HIDDEN STUDY SHOWS FUEL TAX UNNECESSARY
The Campbell government is sitting on at least one study that shows high oil prices may be enough to reach emission reduction targets without the fuel tax, New Democrat Finance Critic Bruce Ralston said this week.
“The government’s own consultant says a study he did shows high oil prices will reduce emissions above and beyond the government’s climate change plan,” said Ralston, the MLA for Surrey-Whalley. “The fuel tax may be unnecessary after all and the government should come clean and release the hidden study.”
To date, two studies released by the government to support its climate change plan are based on oil priced at $60 and $85 a barrel. Oil is currently $143 a barrel and rising.
According to a footnote in the government’s own Climate Action Plan, carbon tax consultant Marc Jaccard also conducted a study based on oil priced at $120 a barrel showing large emission reductions. The government has not released the third study.
“The government’s reason for the new tax is to increase fuel prices to the point where people decide to change their behaviour and adopt lower emission practices,” said Ralston. “But the market has done that for them. The price of oil is so high people are making changes without the government’s additional tax.”
“What’s missing isn’t a tax. It’s the alternatives people are seeking to escape the high price of oil,” said Ralston. “We don’t have enough transit services. There isn’t enough help to retrofit homes. People need options, not another tax.”
#20. DENNIS COCKE WILL BE REMEMBERED FOR HEALTH CARE POLICY
The following is NDP Leader Carole James’ statement on the passing of Dennis Cocke:
“It’s with great sadness that I learned about the passing of Dennis Cocke, one of B.C.’s finest.
“Dennis’ lifelong passion for public service and his 17 years as an MLA led to remarkable achievements and a powerful legacy for the future.
“Dennis will always be remembered for his political leadership on health care policy, especially during his time as Health Minister under the Dave Barrett government. His work became a real force in developing cost-effective and universally accessible health care in B.C.
“The B.C. Ambulance Service, developed by Dennis while he was Health Minister, continues to be a model across the country.
“Locally, Dennis enriched his community in a myriad of ways through his tireless participation in institutions related to health care, education and finance. An example of his vision is the modern day Western Society for Senior Citizens Services, which has continued to serve the New Westminster, Burnaby and Tri-cities area for 35 years.
“Dennis and his wife Yvonne Cocke were an unforgettable duo. Popularly known as the Hi-Cs, Dennis and Yvonne Cocke provided real inspiration to the New Democrats as they lived up to the core principles governing the party. Together, they spent decades serving a variety of causes and making this province a better place for all of us.
“I join people across B.C. as we fondly remember Dennis Cocke and honour his extraordinary life and achievements.”
#21. PROVINCE LAUNCHES LIVESMARTBC.CA
The B.C. government has created a new website and information campaign to help British Columbians make better energy choices and explain how the province of B.C. plans to handle climate change issues, Environment Minister Barry Penner announced this week.
The new LiveSmartBC website provides up-to-date information to help British Columbians save on energy costs and explain the new revenue-neutral carbon tax that takes effect July 1.
“Climate change is real and it’s threatening our forests, our watersheds and our way of life,” said Penner. “People need to better understand what’s happening to our climate and know what government incentives are available to them to help them do their part. British Columbians need to realize that the time to act is now and that doing nothing is just not an option.”
The new LiveSmartBC website is a comprehensive source of information on the science of global warming, the actions government is taking to fight climate change and ways that individuals, companies and organizations can do their part in the battle against climate change.
“B.C.’s Climate Action Plan outlines strategies that will take our province approximately 73 per cent of the way to meeting our goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 33 per cent by 2020,” said Penner. “It also sets out the process we will follow to identify strategies to get us the remaining 27 per cent of the way there.”
The government’s LiveSmart initiative is supported by an informational campaign. It began last weekend with newspaper ads, and starting today it will include advertising on radio and television.
The information campaign will highlight the challenge of global warming and the actions individual citizens can take to save on fuel, on energy, and on taxes in their daily activities. In particular, it will focus on transportation, fuel-efficient vehicles and home-energy savings, including the promotion of incentive programs available to consumers who want to make smart choices to save money.
The LiveSmartBC website can be found at http://www.livesmartbc.ca/.
#22. PRIME MINISTER STEPHEN HARPER ON CANADA’S 141st BIRTHDAY
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement marking Canada Day:
“Today, Confederation turns 141 years old and there are more reasons than ever to celebrate our country.
“2008 is a year of historic anniversaries: the 400th anniversary of the founding of Quebec City by Canada’s first governor, Samuel de Champlain; the 250th anniversary of the establishment of representative government in Nova Scotia, making Canada one of the world’s first democracies; and the 150th anniversary of the founding of the Crown Colony of British Colombia, ensuring our country would one day stretch from sea to sea.
“Beyond all that, this year also witnessed an important evolution in Canada’s relationship with our First Peoples. On that historic day last month when we gathered on Parliament Hill in a spirit of reconciliation, and as National Chief Fontaine said ‘Together we can achieve the greatness our country deserves.’ How right he is.
“Together, we are a united federation of strong provinces and territories. Together, we are healthy families building strong communities. Together, we are prudent stewards of our precious environment. Together, we are rich in opportunity and diversity, French and English, aboriginal and multicultural, native-born and newcomers. And together, we are making a positive difference in the world, led by the brave men and women of the Canadian Forces in Afghanistan.
“Fellow Canadians, every day in countless ways, we are working together to achieve the greatness our country deserves. That’s why on this Canada Day, we are prouder than ever to call ourselves Canadian.
“On behalf of Laureen, Ben, and Rachel and the entire Government of Canada, I wish all of you a Happy Canada Day!”
#23. PREMIER GORDON CAMPBELL ON CANADA DAY
Premier Gordon Campbell released the following statement in recognition of Canada Day:
“I am proud to join British Columbians and Canadians across the country in celebrating the 141st anniversary of confederation.
“Here in British Columbia we have even more to celebrate this year with activities and projects across the province commemorating BC150 - 150 years of achievement, cultural diversity and community strength since the founding of the Crown Colony of British Columbia in 1858.
“Each year on Canada Day I am reminded again of how fortunate we are to live in British Columbia, a place of natural riches and beauty, a place that attracts people from around the world to live, work and raise their families.
“Canada Day is our national celebration. It’s also a time to reflect on what makes our country strong. The contributions of our immigrants combined with the achievements of our First Nations and our unique Aboriginal heritage have helped create one of the most multicultural societies anywhere on earth. That’s truly something to celebrate.
“We also remember on Canada Day the men and women who have both defined and defended our freedoms – from those who fought on the battlefields of Vimy Ridge, Normandy, Holland and Korea to the troops courageously serving today in places like Afghanistan.
“Since 1867 Canada has grown and prospered beyond anything the founders of confederation could have imagined. I encourage all British Columbians to think today not only about how far we have come as a country, but also about what kind of country and what kind of world we want our legacy to be.
“I wish all British Columbians a happy and safe Canada Day.”
#24. PRIME MINISTER WELCOMES CANADA’S NEW TOP SOLDIER
Prime Minister Stephen Harper participated in the official Canadian Forces Change of Command Ceremony on July 2 as the position of Chief of the Defence Staff passed from General Rick Hillier to General Walter Natynczyk.
Harper said: “The office of the Chief of the Defence Staff embodies the skill, dedication, and professionalism that have been the hallmarks of the Canadian Forces throughout its glorious history. Today’s ceremony is about ensuring the continuity of one of our most essential national institutions, the ultimate guardian of Canada’s sovereignty, security, and place in the world.
“To that end, the Government of Canada has created the Canada First Defence Strategy, a comprehensive plan to modernize the Canadian Forces. Today the task of implementing this Strategy passes from one outstanding Canadian soldier to another. I thank General Hillier for his strong leadership and congratulate him on his success in transforming the Canadian Forces and restoring our military to pride of place in Canadian life.
“And I thank General Natynczyk for accepting the challenge to lead the Canadian Forces. I know he will fulfill his duties with the consummate skill, dedication and professionalism he has displayed throughout his career.
“Finally, on behalf of all Canadians, I thank every man and woman who has chosen to wear the uniform of the Canadian Forces. It is you who stand on guard for our True North strong and free.”
#25. PRIME MINISTER ON THE 400TH ANNIVERSARY OF QUÉBEC CITY
On July 3, Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement on the 400th anniversary of Québec City:
“Greetings Québec!
“Rare are the North-American cities that can celebrate such a glorious past. 1608 is a historical date for you, for the province of Quebec and for all of Canada, because July 3rd, 1608, exactly 400 years ago today, really marks the beginning of what we have become today.
“Fellow Canadians, I may have grown up in Toronto, I may have decided to live in Calgary with my family, and I may work in Ottawa, but they say all Canadians must have two cities in his or her heart: their own, and Québec City. Because it’s the most beautiful city of Canada, the most charming – a city that radiates ‘joie de vivre.’
“When he arrived, Samuel de Champlain was welcomed by the Aboriginal people who lived here and he formed an alliance with them. The name of the city was born from this alliance: Québec means ’strait’ and refers to the mouth of the St. Lawrence.
“Isn’t it wonderful that our great country, Canada, was also named by our First Peoples? Canada meant ‘village’ – this village.
“After founding Québec City, Champlain made a dozen expeditions in Canada, explored the coasts and rivers of our country – Acadia, the St. Lawrence Valley and Georgian Bay. He and his companions saw a big future!
“The seeds planted here 400 years ago today have blossomed into a magnificent city, a strong and proud Québecois nation, and a great Canadian country, strong and free. What an amazing legacy!
“I tell people across this country, Samuel de Champlain was not just the founder of this city - his name is engraved at Rideau Hall, the residence of the Governor General, as the first in the long line of governors of Canada. This heritage belongs to all of Canadians and we should all be proud of what Champlain and those who followed him have left us: our most beautiful Québec City, at the mouth of the mighty St. Lawrence, a French-speaking nation, the Québécois, in the heart of our continent, and a peaceful and prosperous country, Canada, admired around the world.
“It belongs not only to Champlain and his companions, but also to the pioneers who believed in his dream of a New France, and who overcame the terrible hardships of the early years, to the sons and daughters and grandsons and granddaughters of the original habitants, who kept their language, their traditions and their institutions, their values and their identity, vibrant and alive to this day. These heirs of the great Champlain have created in North America a bastion of French language that is renowned in the world.
“These four centuries of perseverance and determination were crowned on November 22, 2006, another historic date, when MPs from every region of our great country, from the Atlantic to the Pacific to the Arctic, recognized that the Québécois and the Québécoises form a nation within a united Canada.
“They said yes to a fundamental truth about Canada and it is because of this irrefutable historical fact that our country is so unique and flourishing today.
“This is what defines Canada, a country born in French, with two national languages spoken all over the world, and a nation rich in opportunities where everybody, regardless their ethnic origin or their religion, work, live and succeed together.
“Forever, Québec City will have a place in their hearts, a place that will charm them eternally. And our Canada, with the Quebecois nation in its heart, will look at our common future with confidence.
“Bonne fête Québec!"
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