Mrs. Catherine Cano made a statement and answered questions.

At 4:34 p.m., the sitting was suspended.

At 4:44 p.m., the sitting resumed in camera.

It was agreed, — That a proposed budget in the amount of $20 700.00, for the Review of the Status of Official Languages in Minority Settings across Canada, be adopted.

At 5:07 p.m., the sitting was suspended.

At 5:08 p.m., the sitting resumed in public.

On motion of M. Généreux, it was agreed that the following motion be adopted, and that it be presented to the House as the first Report of the Committee.

That - The Committee would like to acknowledge the significant contribution that the Honourable Mauril Bélanger, has made to Official Languages in Canada.

During his career as a Member of Parliament, as the former Minister Responsible for Official Languages and as the Past Chair of this Committee, Mr. Bélanger not only served and represented the residents of the riding of Ottawa–Vanier with dedication, but he also worked tirelessly and vigorously on behalf of Official Language minority communities across Canada.

The members of the Committee would like to pay tribute to the determination, perseverance and courage that Mr. Bélanger has shown as he continues to champion our official languages with passion and dedication despite the adversity he now faces on a daily basis.

With his strong sense of commitment and enthusiasm, Mr. Bélanger has made, and continues to make, an unforgettable difference for official language minority communities from coast to coast to coast. Therefore, the members of the Committee would like to invite organizations representing English and French speaking minority communities in Canada to join them in recognizing Mr. Bélanger’s commitment and in thanking him for his exceptional contribution.