Regina, Monday, August 23, 2010
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I would like to thank you very warmly, your Honours, for hosting this lunch on the occasion of my visit to Regina.
It is a real privilege, and I am delighted to be with you here today.
I have never forgotten the first time I came to Regina, and Saskatchewan, as Governor General of Canada in 2006.
One of the greatest pleasures of the office I hold is having the opportunity to go and meet people in every province and territory across our vast country.
I remember the passionate discussions I had with Saskatchewanians from every walk of life.
Veterans and war brides, members of the Treaty 4 First Nation and Métis, schoolchildren of the Qu’Appelle Valley, citizens dedicated to the revitalization of North Central Regina, students at the RCMP Depot Division and the talented youth of NightWind Theatre and Street Culture Project.
These discussions have stayed with me throughout my mandate and I have shared what we talked about everywhere I have travelled in Canada and abroad. I have also lauded the spirit of solidarity and openness that characterizes Saskatchewan.
Later today, in Saskatoon, I am looking forward to continuing an on-going discussion I began five years ago with young people across the country and around the world.
I believe that what young people have to say, and the dreams they so dearly want to make a reality, are vital resources for the Canada of today and symbols of hope for the Canada of the future.
Tomorrow, I will also take part in a discussion on women’s rights at the University of Saskatchewan, as this year marks the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the Canadian Bill of Rights, and I will travel to La Ronge to meet with the women, men and young people behind the success of that Aboriginal community, which serves as a development model.
But I would especially like to make the most of every opportunity to thank the people of Saskatchewan for the support and friendship they have shown me over the past five years.
I will cherish the time I have spent in Saskatchewan, and I hope to come back to visit you and your wonderful, unique province in the years to come.
Thank you very much!
