SOD turning remarks for the Collingwood public library

July 03, 2008

Mayor Carrier, Members of Council, members of the Library Board, honourary board members, library staff, special guest and of course the public it is my pleasure to be here today to participate in this ground breaking event for the new Collingwood.

I want to begin by commending the architect who has been mindful of the heritage of the Town of Collingwood while integrating innovative energy conservation.

This is a wonderful example of our growth as a community..and as a country.

As your Federal Member of Parliament and Canada’s Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs International Trade and Amateur Sport

..I have seen first hand parts of our world where people have no access to an education, no libraries and little hope for their future. I have seen parts of the world where girls who were not allowed to read or go to school are now for the first time at the age of 13 learning to read because of Canada & Canadians.

We are so fortunate. We must be careful not to take it for granted. This community is very fortunate indeed that Mayor Chris Carrier, town councilors and city planners foresee the needs of their community, and have acted to meet these needs.

Today Libraries are more than a building filled with books. It is a place for the community to meet, a place to gain a better understanding of the world around you and of course a place to read.

Thank you for including me in this celebration today. I will look forward to the opening day.

Thank you

Please click here to view photos.