The opening of the CNE is another indication that our lives are back to normal. I was delighted and honoured to attend the opening of the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada booth at the CNE and meet so many old friends.

The NEPMCC is a forum of more than 800 member publications—print, online, radio and TV—that represent 65 different languages. They reach over seven million Canadians. I would like to congratulate Mr. Thomas Saras for leading the organization to new heights and achievements.

For more than seven decades, ethnic newspapers have been meeting the challenges of assistance, guidance and integration of millions of newcomers who have immigrated to Canada. All of this is done in the spirit of helping them to become better Canadians. Its role has been to introduce immigrants to their new environment as efficiently and as painlessly possible for them, their families and their community in order for them to become full-fledged citizens of our country, so that the newcomers are willing and able to contribute their talents and abilities for the benefit of all Canadians.

They also promote excellence in journalism among their members. They serve as a forum for the study and discussion of barriers faced by ethnic groups. And they gather and disseminate information, which leads to a better understanding and cooperation among the various ethnic groups in Canada and mainstream society. They are an integral part of our society and they deserve our unwavering support and solidarity.

I wish the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada and Mr. Saras many more successes and milestones.