"Each year, National Public Service Week gives Canadians an opportunity to pay tribute to the men and women who work in the public service and to thank them for the significant contribution they make to our quality of life.

Canada consistently shines in international surveys as one of the best countries in the world in which to live. This, in no small way, is thanks to the excellence of our public sector institutions and the public servants who day in and day out serve Canadians with dedication and commitment.

From time to time, we see the work of public servants very visibly as they come together to assist Canadians in times of great need. In the case of the Saguenay flood last summer and the Manitoba flood this spring, public servants from all levels of government could be seen working together to protect the lives and property of their fellow citizens and to ensure a quick return to a normal life.

But most of the time public servants work quietly behind the scenes. Having served as a Minister in ten portfolios since 1967, I know first hand that public servants are continually working with the same genuine determination and commitment every day, in every department and agency of government. This effort often goes unheralded.

The last few years have not been easy for public servants, what with budget reductions and downsizing. Nevertheless they have continued to work hard to maintain public trust and respect in the work they do. The daily efforts of public servants to provide Canadians with modern, efficient and innovative services deserve to be celebrated.

I am proud of our public servants and I know Canadians join me in extending best wishes and heartfelt thanks for their commitment and dedication on the occasion of National Public Service Week."