“Canada’s greatest strength lies in its energy and determination to build a better future,” says MP Yelich

OTTAWA – Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada delivered the Government’s Speech from the Throne, outlining a long-term agenda of clear goals and real results, focused on making life better for Canadians and their families on October 16, 2007. A mid-mandate Speech from the Throne provides an opportunity to frame the next phase of the Government’s policy agenda while highlighting accomplishments to date. The Speech from the Throne is an expression of Government policy priorities that will deliver tangible results for ordinary Canadians.

"We take inspiration from the great explorers of our true north – Radisson and Groseilliers, Hudson and Franklin, Bernier, Amundsen and the rest. Just as they were guided by the North Star, we will be guided by a five-point agenda for Canada," Prime Minister Harper explained in his reply to the Speech from the Throne, October 17, 2007. In the next session of Parliament, Government will focus on five clear priorities:

• Strengthening Canada’s sovereignty and place in the world by upholding our heritage and sovereignty at home and by living by our values abroad. Our government will vigorously protect our Arctic sovereignty and will realize a responsible and effective path forward in Afghanistan.
• Strengthening the federation and modernizing its democratic institutions by respecting provincial areas of responsibility. Our Government will continue to strengthen our democracy by addressing the need to shorten senators’ tenure from a maximum of 45 years to eight years.

Address to the U of S Centennial Celebration Dinner

Good evening.  I am pleased to be a part of this 100th birthday celebration.  On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to welcome all the alumni and distinguished guests; President Peter MacKinnon, I would like to thank you for being the gracious host you are, as always.

I was honoured to be invited tonight and to be asked to include a few items in the time capsule.

As a representative of the Federal Government I would first like to forward a greeting from the Prime Minister of Canada, the Right Honourable Stephen Harper. Being the University’s centennial year, I would like to include in the time capsule a picture of the leader of our country alongside the leader of this University.

As a representative of the Federal riding of Blackstrap I will also include a copy of my householder, which is a guide to the House of Commons, describing the Canadian Parliament, how it is made up and structured — as it is today. That might well change when this capsule is opened in 25 years — given the current debate on the Senate.