Hansard Address by Pierre Lemieux,

Canada’s Map Office

 November 28, 2006

Mr. Pierre Lemieux (Glengarry-Prescott-Russell, CPC):  

Mr. Speaker, recently, Canadians' right of access to paper topographic maps was protected by the Minister of Natural Resources because the former government was caught napping on mapping.

Canada has a distinguished history in map making and is a world leader in geomatics. Our country is currently world renowned for its innovative geospatial technology, grounded in what is probably the country's most historical profession, land exploration.

As soon as the minister was made aware of the former government's decision to close the Canada Map Office, he sprung into action and saved the program. In doing so, not only has our minister ensured continued access to maps, but he has increased awareness of the importance of maps to rural and remote communities, sovereignty, infrastructure, tourism, education, national defence and many more areas.

Maps are important. They are not only an integral part of our heritage but also of our current and future economy.

This House applauds and thanks the minister and Canada's new government for keeping Canada on the map.