"While our visions of the future of Quebec in Canada were fundamentally irreconcilable, I want to salute Lucien Bouchard as an able parliamentarian who has fought for his beliefs with passion and determination.

All those who serve the public understand the tremendous sacrifices that they have to make to succeed in carrying out their mandate. There is no doubt that Mr. Bouchard devoted his energies completely to that end.

As he brings his time in public life to a close, Aline joins me in sincerely wishing every success to him, Mrs. Audrey Best and their children as they open a new chapter in their lives."