I am honoured to rise today to pay tribute to the late Honourable David C. Onley, Ontario’s 28th Lieutenant Governor. I welcome his family here today and express my sincere condolences for your loss.

I had the honour of attending Mr. Onley’s funeral and there is no question that he was so loved and cherished by his family, was a valued member of his spiritual community and a truly respected member of the disability community.

Mr. Onley was an extraordinary person and a real champion for people with disabilities. The barriers he broke for people with disabilities, the path he paved, the expectations he left government—this House—with were groundbreaking, inspiring and, I believe, must be honoured by all who serve in this place to carry on his legacy.

I look forward to the implementation of all the recommendations from the Onley report and I’m so thankful for the work he did to advance the rights of all Ontarians, especially those with disabilities.

The great David Onley will be missed, but he will never be forgotten. May Your Honour rest in peace.