Remarks at the Unveiling of the decorative window commemorating the 150th anniversary of Confederation
Former Prime Ministers, Speaker Regan, Minister Qualtrough, former Speakers, fellow parliamentarians, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.
As Speaker of the Senate, it is a great honour and privilege to participate in this special ceremony.
We are gathered here today to mark the 150th anniversary of the first meeting of the first Parliament of Canada.
On November 6, 1867, the first parliamentarians assembled to take their oaths of office and to begin the work of the great Canadian experiment.
Members and senators from four provinces began, as one former Prime Minister noted, “the vigorous expression of free democracy which has continued to this moment.”
Today, Senators and Members of the House of Commons from ten provinces and three territories continue in that vigorous work – in upholding and developing our democracy – by listening to Canadians, and by engaging in political debate.
They are part of an ongoing and noble tradition.
This afternoon, I would like to draw your attention to the work of Canada’s fifth Dominion Sculptor – the artist behind today’s unveiling.
Since 2006, Phil White has been documenting and contributing to a century’s worth of sculptures.
His artistry, like that of his predecessors, tells the story of our nation through statues, portraits and decorative pieces, all upon the open canvas of our Parliament Buildings.
As a carver, he continues to expand our inventory of stone, wood and bronze décor.
As the nation’s official sculptor, his work can be found carved into the stones of the Centre Block and appreciated, not only within the precinct, but in federal buildings across the city.
His many works, including this commemorative window, are meant to interpret the vitality of Canada, and to inspire those who serve in our institution.
While this work focuses our celebration on the 150th anniversary of the first meeting of Parliament, it is also cause for us to reflect on our collective history and traditions.
For it will remind all parliamentarians and indeed future generations of Canadians of what we have accomplished and what remains to be done.
I thank you all for being with us today to mark this special occasion.