Debates of May 31, 2005 (day 5)

Mahsi, Madam Speaker. During the First and Second World Wars a group of very dedicated American field service people volunteered as ambulance brigades overseas. At the end of the Second World War, they decided that the cause of peace and world harmony would be very well served if they paid attention to the families of the young people that they met while in Europe and created exchanges for them with their own families in America.

Shortly after the Second World War, I think 10 countries participated in an international exchange organization that has now grown to encompass, I believe, 54 countries around the world. Twenty-five years ago, this organization, now called AFS Interculture Canada, got its start here in this country and as far as I can figure, about 22 years ago, Madam Speaker, it got its start here in Yellowknife. We’ve had the opportunity and the great pleasure of hosting in those 22 years or so more than 150 students and we have sent, I think, about half that number out into the world. It is a life-changing experience, Madam Speaker, not only for the young people who engage in this, but for the families around the world and certainly here in Yellowknife, who take on the challenge of hosting these people and helping them know about Canada.

This year we are pleased to host eight students with the AFS program here in Canada and our schools also welcome students from other programs, including World Heritage. A bit later on this afternoon, Madam Speaker, all of those students will be introduced.

This couldn’t happen without the generosity of the families here, but also of our school system and with the students with us this year at Sir John Franklin High School. Also, Madam Speaker, with the unwavering support of the Department of Education, Culture and Employment who, like those volunteers from many years ago, believed in the value of youth and world exchange and a better world tomorrow. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

---Applause