Haiti

As you have all no doubt heard and read, there was a huge earthquake in Haiti that occurred two days ago. The devastation of an already impoverished country is significant.

The relationship between Canada and Haiti is longstanding and strong. Canada has provided significant assistance over the years to support the development of Haiti. In addition, there is a significant Haitian born population in Canada, including our Governor General.

My father before he retired and while he was working for the Government of Canada had the opportunity to travel to Haiti a few times to teach courses in automotive management. He loved the country and its people but was taken aback by the level of poverty in the country.

I see that the Government of Canada has reacted very quickly to the disaster in Haiti and is sending relief teams and supplies. And Canadians have reacted by contributing to the relief effort.

It will be a long process to rebuild Haiti and I am sure that all Canadians will continue to support that redevelopment.