| Employment and Social Development Canada
| statements
OTTAWA- National Public Service Week serves as a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the contributions of public servants across Canada. There have been many opportunities, at home and abroad, where I have relied on the expertise of public servants. In fact, I could not fulfill my role without them.
On the occasion of World Oceans Day, the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, issued the following statement:
"I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate World Oceans Day. Initially proposed by the Government of Canada in 1992 as a way to raise awareness about the importance of our oceans and officially recognized by the United Nations in 2009, World Oceans Day is now celebrated globally every year on June 8th.
Poetry, an important symbol of freedom of expression, has always played a central role in Canada's rich literary tradition. The men and women dedicated to this art form have helped shape our country's identity, and they deserve our appreciation.