Friday, March 11, 2016

Today's "crumb" comes from a reader in Canada

Liberal MP Mauril Belanger has represented the citizens of Ottawa-Vanier in the Canadian Parliament for 21 years. Among countless worthy causes, he's championed national unity, protection for minorities and revision of the national anthem, "O Canada," to make it gender neutral. He hoped to be elected Speaker this year, but was diagnosed last November with ALS. He can no longer speak except through an iPad, and finds walking difficult. Because he is so highly respected on both sides of the aisle, he received a tribute on March 9 never previously bestowed on any Canadian. He was named Honorary Speaker of the House of Commons, for a day.
                                                                                                                                 CBC News
If you watch the CBC News video linked below, you'll see the ceremonial guard marching very slowly as Speaker Belanger pushes his walker behind them. The Prime minister and members of the Cabinet were in the crowd applauding as he approached the grand front door of the House. MPs waiting inside cheered him as he entered the chamber. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke for all when he said, "I salute you, as the honorable member for Ottawa-Vanier and as Speaker for the dignity and grace that you bring to the House every day as you battle this terrible disease." To see a few moments of governmental affection, click on this link.  http://www.cbc.ca/player/play/2685042399

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