Honourable senators, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to pay tribute to a prominent figure in our country and our institution, the Honourable Senator Lise Bacon, who passed away last week.

Ms. Bacon paved the way for excellence through her career and commitment. She left her mark on the history of Quebec and Canada through her service-oriented public life.

Born in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield and raised in Trois-Rivières, she was never content to sit on the sidelines. She always wanted to be part of the action.

She was the second woman elected to the Quebec National Assembly in 1973 after Claire Kirkland-Casgrain, and she became the first woman to hold the position of deputy premier of Quebec.

After working in the business world from 1976 to 1981, she was re-elected as a member of the Quebec Liberal Party in 1981, 1985 and 1989. Her contribution is about more than just titles and official duties. What set her apart was her concern for the community and her conviction that politics should be an instrument of progress and fairness.

For many women and for all those who hoped such a thing could be possible, she was living proof that public engagement can go hand in hand with integrity and perseverance.

Elected as part of Premier Robert Bourassa’s government, she was a pillar, a beacon that showed the way forward.

I was always impressed by her presence and charisma, but she was not reserved. On the contrary, Ms. Bacon was a warm, attentive and authentic woman.

When she became a senator in January 1994, she continued her mission and brought with her all the wisdom of her experience and all the passion of her commitment. She left the Senate on August 25, 2009, two days before I was appointed. I am saddened that I didn’t have the privilege of working alongside her again as a colleague in this chamber.

My thoughts are with Ms. Bacon’s family and loved ones. I offer them my sincere condolences and my gratitude for all that this remarkable woman accomplished.

Thank you, Ms. Bacon, for your invaluable contribution to Quebec and Canadian society.