Statement by Official Opposition Leader Tom Mulcair on Portugal Day

This Portugal Day, people of Portuguese descent are coming together to celebrate their contribution to the history and culture of this planet. It is a fitting way to commemorate the death of Luís de Camões, so renowned for his poetic tributes to the Portuguese people.

Canada’s Portuguese community is woven deeply through the fabric of our country—through essential contributions to our economy, to our culture, to our neighbourhoods. Portuguese Canadians are renowned for their strong work ethic and their resilience.

For me, these values lie at the heart of what it means to be Canadian.

New Democrats treasure the strong relationship between Portugal and Canada. In recognition of our enduring bond, we introduced a motion to declare every June 10 Canada-Portugal Day, which was adopted unanimously in the House of Commons on June 2010.

But there is still work to be done. That is why, today, the NDP introduced a motion to establish a youth mobility agreement with Portugal that would allow Canadian youth to experience the vibrant life and culture of Portugal and would provide Portuguese youth with same opportunity here in Canada.”

Congratulations to everyone celebrating Portugal Day. Sinceros parabéns!