July 1, 2014 Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement to mark Canada Day:
“One hundred and fifty years ago in Charlottetown and QuébecCity, our Fathers of Confederation first dreamed of a united Canada, prosperous, strong and free.
“As we mark the 147th anniversary of Confederation, we can proudly say that their great national dream has indeed come to fruition.
“Today, as we celebrate with family and loved ones, let’s remember what makes our Canada the best country in the world.
“It’s the moms and dads who pass on to their children Canadian values: working hard, doing what’s right, and determination to be our best.
“All Canadians cheered as we saw these values drive our athletes to victory at the 2014 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
“These values are also represented by our men and women in uniform who keep our streets and loved ones safe, and by those proud members of the Canadian Armed Forces who vigorously defend our rare and precious way of life.
“The members of our military have always been willing to give their lives to protect our freedom, promote our values and pursue peace.
“This year they mark special milestones: the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the First World War, the 75th anniversary of the beginning of the Second, and the end of Canada’s military mission to Afghanistan, which we honoured across the country in May.
“Let their legacy in service of Canada inspire us to work harder than ever to continue to build our true North, strong and free.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada and from my family to yours, happy Canada Day everyone.”