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Speaker's Report

Speaker's Report

July 2005 Issue

A report of activities from Senator Dan Hays

ear Readers, D A great deal has happened since my last newsletter, particularly the devastating tsunami in Southeast Asia. In fact, I witnessed the tragic consequences of this natural disaster first-hand in March when I paid an official visit to Indonesia. What was obvious to me, and Canadians in general, was the unprecedented level of destruction, but what was less-so was the triumph of the human spirit. From the students in dilapidated university dorms, to the family living in temporary shelter, to the children coping with their losses, I was moved by the resilience of the Indonesian people and by their ability to cope in the most difficult circumstances. Inside, you will find a brief glimpse of that visit, among the many others my diplomatic responsibility calls on me to do.

Parliamentary diplomacy is one of my roles as Speaker of the , and one I take very seriously. Moreover, as an senator, I believe this role also involves my province. Since my appointment as Speaker, I have always looked for ways to bring Alberta to the world and the world to Alberta. Accordingly, while over the last few years, I have had the honour to proudly represent in more than 30 countries, I have also taken great pride in bringing delegations of parliamentarians from across the world to my hometown of Calgary. Indeed, delegates from Southeast Asia, to Europe, to the Middle East, to South America, and points in between, have all had the chance to see this great province and this great city.

In this Issue ... Speaking of Alberta, there is a great deal to celebrate this year. The centennial, the visit of her Majesty the Queen and a new Lieutenant-Governor! 2 Reforming Britain’s And on top of all of this, the Alberta Scene – a National Arts Centre celebration that brought the best of Alberta culture and arts to earlier this spring.

3 New Senators Inside, you will also find excerpts from a speech I delivered in Scotland 4 Alberta Celebrates honouring Tommy Douglas, Canada’s greatest Canadian – as voted by Canadians 100 years ! in a nation-wide CBC poll. As well, I am pleased to offer an article on reforming 5 Calgary Exhibition & the British House of Lords, as part of my series examining parliamentary systems Stampede 2005 in other .

6 Honouring So I invite you to visit my web site at www.sen.parl.gc.ca/dhays and read about Tommy C. Douglas everything I have mentioned and more. 8 A new Lieutenant- Governor for Alberta Sincerely, 9 Staying Connected 10 Diplomatic Corner 16 News from our office Page 2 Speaker’s Report July 2005 Reforming Britain’s House of Lords n my time as Speaker of the a series of reforms which began with Senate, I’ve had the opportunity the Parliament Act in 1911. Prior to toI visit several countries whose this reform, the Lords, most of parliaments include a second whom were Conservative, had chamber. While the in most unlimited power to reject legislation. of those countries are provided for However, after they blocked in constitutions drafted following the Chancellor David Lloyd George’s Second World War, a notable 1909 “People’s Budget,” which exception is the British House of created a form of social insurance to Lords, which dates back to the be partly financed by land and fourteenth century. income taxes, the Liberal Government introduced legislation The , created in that would for the first time restrict 1867, was inspired to some degree the upper chamber’s powers. This by the House of Lords and shares new act ensured that bills could many of its characteristics. So become law after two years even reforms made to the Lords since without the Lords’ consent, provided 1911 offer much to ponder for those they be passed by the Commons in concerned with the continuing three successive sessions. It also evolution of our own Senate. restricted the Lords’ ability to delay money bills to one month. And the two parliamentary delegations I’ve led to the United Though other proposals for Kingdom have provided the modernizing the Lords were made in David Lloyd George (1863-1945) opportunity to study Lords’ reform the decades that followed the 1911 Obstruction of his 1909 "People’s Budget" launched the first major Lords’ reform from a historical standpoint, as well reform, it was only in the forties that Photo: National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth as examine its more recent another significant change took place. developments. In 1948, Clement Atlee’s Labour near a breakdown in its machinery,” Government embarked on a radical since a “large number of peers 3 Prime ’s program to nationalize the Bank of seldom if ever attend, ” the was elected in 1997, England, the gas, electricity, coal, iron government introduced this measure promising several major constitutio- and steel industries, as well as the to create more “working peers.” nal changes1 that included making the railways. Fearing the Conservative Unlike their hereditary counterparts, House of Lords more democratic majority in the Lords would block however, life peers would not be and representative. Following these reforms, the government able to transfer their titles to through on this commitment, the introduced a bill which was to descendants. government adopted the House of become the Parliament Act 1949. This Lords Act in 1999, which removed the measure further reduced the period Besides balancing representation right of most of the 759 hereditary during which the Lords could delay by allowing for members to be peers to sit and vote in the Lords, bills from three sessions over two chosen from various political parties, while making provision for 92 of years to two sessions over one year. backgrounds and professions, this them to retain their seats. This was reform would for the first time allow seen as a transitional measure, since Reforms ushered in by the 1911 women to sit and vote in the House the government ultimately intended and 1949 Parliament Acts dealt with of Lords. Moreover, although the to remove all hereditary peers, as the powers of the upper chamber. 1958 Act allowed women to sit in well as devise a new method for However, it was only in 1958 that the Lords as life peers, it was only appointing members. significant changes to its composition with passage of the Peerage Act 1963 were made, when Harold Macmillan’s that hereditary peeresses were able The 1999 House of Lords Act Conservative Government passed to do so as well. The 1963 Act also profoundly changed the upper the Life Peerages Act2. Arguing that allowed Scottish peers to sit in the chamber, but it was only the latest in the upper chamber was “perilously Lords, and enabled hereditary peers July 2005 Speaker’s Report Page 3 New Senators to renounce their titles. Party Manifesto promises a free vote Prime Minister on abolishing the remaining heridita- announced the following Others proposals for reforming ry peers and defining the Lords’ appointments to the Senate on the Lords’ composition and powers powers to delay legislation4. The Li- March 24, 2005: were made in 1968 by Prime beral Democratic and Conservative The Honorable Art Eggleton, has Minister Harold Wislon’s Labour parties, meanwhile, are committed to served in public office at the municipal government. However, these propo- a largely elected House of Lords. level at the City of and in the sals were rejected, being deemed too Canadian House of Commons for over radical by supporters of the status So the debate continues. And we thirty years. quo, and too mild by those who an- will have to wait and see how the ted to abolish the House of Lords. new Blair Government – re-elected Elaine McCoy, Q.C., is President of on May 5 – intends to complete its the Macleod Institute at the University of It wasn't until 1999, as already modernization of the Lords. Calgary. A lawyer and former Alberta mentioned, that further reform took cabinet minister, Ms. McCoy has had place, when the Labour Government Reforms made to Britain’s upper over thirty years professional experience in regulation and policy development in passed the House of Lords Act. Funda- chamber over the last hundred years both the private and public sectors. mentally changing the composition of illustrate how intricate and arduous the upper chamber, this reform was the process can be, and how it must Grant Mitchell has long-been to be completed by removing all re- consider and balance many factors recognized as one of Alberta’s foremost maining hereditary peers, devising a before it can be accomplished. political,community and business leaders. new appointment mechanism, and Accordingly, to be successful, a streamlining the Lords’ powers. reform of our Senate will have to Robert W. Peterson is widely consider issues such as the selection recognized as one of ’s And on the heels of the sweeping or election mechanism for senators, leading entrepreneurs and community changes brought about by the 1999 the distribution of seats among activists.

Act, the government appointed a regions, as well as the legislative Nancy Ruth has spoken authoritavely royal commission to study further powers of the second chamber. about the Canadian Charter of Rights reforms. Chaired by Lord Wakeham, Moreover, any change will have to and Freedoms and on a myriad of issues the commission proposed that the carefully examine the Senate’s concerning women’s rights, poverty, House of Lords be primarily a revi- relationship with the executive politics and economics. sing and advisory chamber, whose branch, with the House of work would complement that of the Commons, and with the premiers in James S. Cowan, Q.C. has made an Commons. It also recommended the regard to provincial representation. indelible imprint on the legal, educational creation of a statutory body to ap- and community landscape of Nova point all members of the Lords, in- Be that as it may, the progress Scotia. cluding those from political parties. made in Great Britain offers an Dr. Lillian Eva Dyck is well-known as In April 2000, the government res- example to all those who feel that an advocate for women and Aboriginals ponded by creating a non-statutory the Canadian Senate ought to be and is a leading figure and role model in commission to select non-political reformed. Canada’s scientific community. peers, the first of whom were ap- ● ● ● pointed later that month. 1. Other proposals included the creation of a Scot- Lieutenant-General Roméo A. tish Parliament and assemblies in Wales and Nor- Dallaire, O.C., C.M.M., M.S.C, C.D. Since then, however, further thern Ireland, as well as a new Human Rights Act. (Retired) is one of Canada’s foremost 2. The first life peers were created by the 1876 military leaders. reforms have remained at the oncep- Appellate Jurisdiction Act. However, these peerages tual stage. Moreover, progress on were limited to judges, to whom the Crown would grant the rank of lord of appeal. Dr. Claudette Tardif has long been completing the reform is being held 3. Parliamentary Debates, House of Lords, speech by recognized as one of Canada’s foremost up by a lack of consensus on a me- the Earl of Home, December 3, 1957, pp. 610 and 612. advocates and defenders of minority thod for appointing peers. As a re- 4. The London Guardian, “Free vote on Lords’ re- linguistic and cultural rights and for her sult, Prime Minister Blair has agreed form promised,” online service, April 11, 2005, considerable contribution to both that at least some of the peers www.guardian.co.uk/. secondary and post-secondary should be elected. And the Labour education. Page 4 Speaker’s Report July 2005 Alberta Celebrates 100 years ! n honour of the Centennial celebrations, Her Majesty centre for children and a variety of new and refurbished I The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of exhibits. The funding will allow Heritage Park to Edinburgh have officially accepted the invitation to visit continue providing a broader understanding of the rich Alberta. heritage of Western Canada. The Museum of the Regiments, for its portion, will receive $3 million, and The visit took place from May 17 to May 25, plans to use the funds to renovate and expand the during which time the Royal Couple visied Saskatchewan museum, and to support ongoing educational programs and Alberta to commemorate the centenary of the entry at the military heritage and education centre. of those two provinces into Confederation. The visit was the Queen’s first to Alberta since 1990 and her fifth in The new Alberta Children’s Hospital, located in Canada since becoming Queen in 1952. I invite all Alber- Calgary, will receive up to $2 million which it will tans to take advantage of this unique opportunity to dedicate to its Healing Gardens project. The gardens celebrate our Queen for her unfaltering dedication and and plays areas are being designed to provide and create service. a warm, inviting, and child-friendly site. This project will promote health and healing and will help to reduce stress To show the Government of Canada’s commitment for both children and their parents. towards the celebration of the centennial of Saskatchewan and Alberta on January 17, 2005, Deputy In addition to the Capital Legacy Projects and Prime Minister Anne McLellan was in to celebration funding, the Government of Canada will announce of up to $60 million to projects and programs invest in projects that will showcase Alberta throughout during the centennial. This contribution complements 2005. These initiatives include the stamping of a programs already announced by the Government of commemorative coin, and an exhibition of emerging Canada and the City of Calgary. Alberta artists called “Alberta Scene,” took place at the National Arts Centre, and in venues around Ottawa This initiative, known as the Capital Legacy Project, between April 28 and May 10, 2005. includes a $55.2 million investment, to be allocated over two-years to support legacy projects that will have a There is much to see and do as our province under- significant impact on the sustainability and quality of life in takes the celebration of its centennial. As a proud the province. The balance of the funding will support Albertan, and proud Canadian, I will certainly take in centennial celebrations and commemorative activities. many of these events and check in on several of these projects. Institutions and projects selected for funding include: the Provincial Museum of Alberta, the Edmonton Art Gallery, the Glenbow Museum, the Heritage Park Pavillion, the Museum of the Regiments, the Healing Gardens (Alberta Children’s Hospital), and the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Arts Awards Program.

In Calgary, several projects will get funding. The Glenbow Museum will receive up to $5 million, which will be used to improve facilities, create spaces for new permanent exhibits, including the much anticipated “Mavericks: An Incorrigible History of Alberta.” This exhibit will tell the story of what it means to be “Albertan” by tracing the development of our history from the time of the First Nations to the present.

Heritage Park will receive $3 million, money that will go towards construction of a new entry pavilion. The pavillion will include a hands-on interpretive learning Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II , Queen of Canada, and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh July 2005 Speaker’s Report Page 5 Calgary Exhibition & Stampede 2005 ahoo! We are already beginning to gear up for the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, the Calgary Stampede. Y In order to showcase the Stampede to the world, we have invited a number of ambassadors, high commissioners, and diplomats to Calgary in July. We have already received many RSVPs including ambassadors and high commissioners from various countries such as Pakistan, Belgium, Thailand, India, Israel, Kuwait and France. This year the Speaker and his wife Kathy will be co-hosting a reception with Speaker Milliken in Calgary for these invited guests during the Stampede. Alberta beef will be on the menu and local entertainment will be featured.

This year is the 55th Annual Hays Breakfast, co-hosted by Roy Jennings, Bud and Don Watson, and Graham and Larry O’Connor. The invited dignitaries and guests will be celebrating the 2005 Stampede as members of the Calgary Rotary Club will be serving up a hearty breakfast for everyone in attendance. Of course, no Hays’ Breakfast is complete without a drink of sillabub!

The Calgary Exhibition & Stampede is a great opportunity to experience true western hospitality. The Stampede is being held on July 8-17, 2005. The official kick-off is 4.5 km Stampede Parade on Friday, July 8, 2005. For tickets to the Rodeo & Chuckwagon Races and other Stampede information, check out www.calgarystampede.com.

Put on those western duds and come on out to the Calgary Stampede.

Happy Stampeding!

Mrs. Kathy Hays and Speaker Dan Hays

Senator Hays invites you to visit these web sites ... www.albertacentennial.ca The official web site of Alberta’s Centennial Celebration. You can catch up on current events, read important news, learn about Alberta history, send invitations for others to attend, or link to other great web sites related to the province’s birthday. www.albertascene.ca Presented by the National Arts Center (nac-cna.ca), the Alberta Scene was 13 days of living arts celebrating the Alberta Centennial throughout the nation’s Capital. The line-up offered a unique chance to over 600 artists to perform their magic. www.lieutenantgovernor.ab.ca Access information on Norman L. Kwong, Alberta’s 16th Lieutenant Governor. The site also explains various topics such as the role of the Lieutenant Governor as the Queen’s provincial representative. www.canadianheritage.gc.ca/royalvisit2005 Albertans are delighted to host Her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh from May 23 to 25 as part of Alberta's centennial celebrations in 2005. This web site includes pictures of past visits, the itiniary of the Queen, as well as current photos of her visit. Page 6 Speaker’s Report July 2005 Honouring Tommy C. Douglas n November 29, 2004, Canadians crowned Tommy As leader of the CCF and , he O Douglas as " of all time" won five straight majority governments, and pioneered in through a nation-wide CBC television poll. On October several areas which included the creation of publicly owned 10, 2004, Senator Hays delivered a speech in , telephone and power utilities, as well as Canada’s first public Scotland, Douglas’s home town, at a ceremony automobile no-fault insurance program. And perhaps most commemorating the centenary of his birth. significantly, under his stewardship, Saskatchewan enacted (Read the entire speech on www.sen.parl.gc.ca/dhays) legislation allowing collective bargaining in the public service, and established the first program in Canada, ● ● ● thereby laying the groundwork that would later ensure In preserving memories of the past by erecting accessible health care for all Canadians. Although faced with monuments honouring great individuals and their the opposition of the North American Medical Establishment, achievements, we highlight the milestones that seek to guide as well as with a doctors’ strike which saw Saskatchewan humanity along its journey towards progress. become the battleground on which the fate of Medicare would be decided, Douglas prevailed, and proved that it was By dedicating a plaque to the memory of Tommy Douglas, possible to develop and finance a universal healthcare system. we not only honour the man but also celebrate his pioneering And for this, all Canadians are deeply indebted to him. work in establishing the social programs that are now a cornerstone of Canadian society. His years in office were marked by countless other achie- vements. As one observer noted: “Thousands of miles of roads An outstanding orator, debater and political organizer, and highways were paved … electricity was brought to most Tommy Douglas claimed as his constituency the farmyards. Health and education improved; incomes rose, and underprivileged and exploited. He spared no effort in the thousands of people enjoyed a sense of defense of civil , and pledged his life to raising the security they’d only dreamed of living standards of his fellow citizens. before.” And confirming that Tommy Douglas was a shrewd If Canada is today a just, caring and compassionate and clear-headed pragmatist, society, it is in large measure as a result of his vision, efforts besides being a blue-eyed idealist, and dedication. Often referred to as the “catalyst and his administration did all this by conscience of Canada’s Parliament,” he once argued, with his exercising careful financial earmark passion and only slight exaggeration – something I management, while paying off the have to say, since I am a Liberal – that: “There is not a single huge public debt, and bringing the piece of progressive legislation designed to improve the lot of province into budgetary surplus. the people of this country ... that didn’t grow out of the demands and persistent requests of our party.”

Elected to the House of Commons in 1935 as a member of the newly founded Cooperative Commonwealth Federation (CCF), he went on to serve as premier of Saskatchewan from 1944 to 1961. Something that earned him the distinction of being leader of the first democratically elected socialist government in North America, a government that lasted an unprecedented 17 years. And from 1961 to 1971, he led Canada’s , the successor to the CCF, retaining his seat in the Commons until he retired in 1979. The record of his achievements is outstanding, since the reforms he implemented in the course of his public life fundamentally changed the nature of Canada and immeasurably improved the lot of his fellow citizens.

Unveiling a plaque honouring Tommy Douglas. Left to right: Senator Hays, young citizens of Falkirk, Mayor James

Johnson, as well as Mr. Ken Shirra, Grand Prior of the Knight Templars in Scotland standing before the Falkirk Wheel picture. Composite Turner. Jodi Credit: Photo July 2005 Speaker’s Report Page 7 Related Links At the federal level, though Tommy Douglas and his party never managed to achieve the same electoral success they’d known in Saskatchewan, they were nonetheless instrumental in helping implement significant reforms that include Medicare, old age pensions, the Canada Labour Code and unemployment insurance.

And among his other achievements are his persuading the federal government to create a landmark royal commission on bilingualism and multiculturalism, and his brokering of a compromise in the bitter 1965 debate over the new Canadian Flag.

During a 1970 speech, asking rhetorically whether his federal political involvement had been wasted, since the NDP had never even come close to power, he said: “I look back and think that a boy from a poor home on the wrong side of the tracks in was given the privilege of being part of a movement that has changed Canada. In my lifetime, I have Photo Credit: CBC Television seen it change Canada.”

www.cbc.ca/greatest And changing Canada as fundamentally as he did, and being an architect of a new, different and more CBC challenged Canadians to answer the provocative compassionate society, took not only dedication and effort, question: If you had to pick just one person, who would but a great deal of hardiness. you name the greatest Canadian? Over 1.2 million voted,

and Tommy C. Douglas was declared The Greatest Given the extent and significance of the changes he helped Canadian on November 29, 2004. usher in, it is no small homage to Tommy Douglas to say that even those who disagreed with him respected his integrity and dedication to building a better world. Though he was a product of his time, he also shaped that time. Not only did he question the injustices afflicting society, he did something to alleviate them. He never lost sight of his dream for a better world, and Canada’s social programs are a testament to his determination, decency and common sense.

So as we gather to dedicate a memorial to this proud son of Scotland and architect of the modern Canada, I am remin- ded of words by the American poet Longfellow, who said:

Lives of great men all remind us We can make our lives sublime, And, departing, leave behind us www.scottish.parliament.uk Footprints on the sands of time.

The new Scottish Parliament, designed by Catalan architect Though the shifting sands of time may erase some of Enrico Miralles, was officially opened by Her Majesty the those footprints, the sturdy material from which this memorial Queen on October 9, 2004. The web site offers a great is fashioned will secure the memory and legacy of Tommy view of the new building, pictures of the opening, and all Douglas through the ages, and stand as a beacon pointing informations related to their parliamentary towards the New Society he dreamed of. process. Page 8 Speaker’s Report July 2005 A new Lieutenant-Governor for Alberta

orman Kwong was sworn in as Alberta’s 16th lieutenant governor, N succeeding the Honourable Lois Hole, who passed away following a battle with cancer on January 6, 2005.

Shortly before being sworn in, Mr. Kwong said: “I have taken on many challenges in my lifetime, from childhood battles over my ethnic background, to restoring faith and support for the Calgary Stampeders in the 1980s. The biggest challenge, however, will be taking over a position held by such a beloved person as Lois Hole.”

Born in Calgary in 1929 to Chinese immigrant parents, Mr. Kwong was the first Chinese-Canadian to play in the Canadian Football League from 1948 to 1960. His outstanding talent as a running back earned the nicknames "China Clipper" and "Living Legend". In his 13 years with the CFL, he was a member of four Grey Cup winning teams, once with the Calgary Stampeders and three times with Edmonton Eskimos. Mr. Kwong holds 30 records in the CFL, and some of his football accomplishments include being the youngest member of a Grey Cup winning team. He was named Canada’s athlete of the year in 1955, and remains the third all-time CFL rusher.

After retiring from football in 1960, Mr. Kwong pursued a successful career in real estate, going on to be part owner and director of the Calgary Flames. In 1988, Mr. Kwong became president and general manager of the Calgary Stampeders.

Mr. Kwong’s numerous other accomplishments include being national chairman of the Canadian Consultative Council on Multiculturalism, as well as an honorary chairman of the Calgary Easter Seal campaign. In 1998, Mr. Kwong was appointed a member of the .

The Honourable is Alberta’s first lieutenant governor of Asian heritage. He has been married to Mary Kwong for 44 years. Together they have four sons and five grandchildren.

"Norman Kwong is an inspiration for many Canadians. His many contributions, as a professional athlete, as a business person and as a prominent figure in society, speak to his commitment to the people of Alberta."

- The Right Honourable Paul Martin, , on the appointment of Mr. Norman Kwong, January 19 2005.

“I know Mr. Kwong will serve Alberta very well as Lieutenant Governor, and will bring his good humour and warm heartedness with him into the role.”

- The Honourable Ralph P. Klein, Premier of Alberta, speaking at the installation ceremony of Alberta’s 16th Lieutenant Governor, January 20 2005. July 2005 Speaker’s Report Page 9 Staying Connected www.senate-senat.ca/senatereport.asp A new, redesigned web site to serve you better

The Senate Report is a quarterly newsletter that informs Canadians of the activities of Senators in the Red Chamber, in Committees and in the community at large. Read about the work that Senators do. www.parl.gc.ca

Visit the official web site of Parliament. Research a current Bill, read upon the Senators’ biographies, or simply search a specific word from the latest debates. « To better communicate with constituents in Alberta using an innovative medium » was the objective behind the launching of the Speaker’s new and improved redesigned www.parl.gc.ca/Information/ web site. about/people/poet/index-e.htm Launched in November 2004, our web site features Mrs. Pauline Michel became the second new and exiting additions created to put the user first. Parliamentary Poet Laureate on November 17, 2004. The site allows the users to: This web site explains the duties related to her work, as • Read reports from all official visits as well as current well as serves as a medium to display great poems from speeches; canadian authors. • View all rulings pronounced in the Senate Chamber; • Request an e-mail notification to know when new www.clrc.ca information is posted; • Learn what the Speaker has been up to recently by The Canadian Livestock consulting our Online Agenda; Records Corporation • Add, modify or substract your address from our celebrates its 100th birthday this mailing list; year. Created with the objective • Voice your comments/questions using our integrated to offer breeders a firm online webform, and much much more. foundation to have reliable and accurate records, the firm holds records for all types of animals, including We look to hearing from you. cattle, horse, sheep, swine, etc. www.thefalkirkwheel.com If you would like more information ... We strive to give our online audience the most A marvel of modern accurate, time-sensitive and concise information. engineering, The Falkirk Wheel, However, if you have a question needing special the world’s first and only attention, or would like to know more about Parliament, rotating boat lift, is an feel free to contact us and we will gladly answer or accomplishment which re-direct your inquiry to the appropreate party. demonstrates the ingenuity of the Scots. View the web site for If your question pertains to the government of more details. Canada or its services, feel free to call 1-800-Ô-Canada. Page 10 Speaker’s Report July 2005 Diplomatic Corner

The Speaker has had the priviledge of meeting with many distinguished Speaker Hays was honoured to diplomatic representative since the last issue of the Speaker’s Report. discuss Parliamentary issues with the following heads of state, as well as with his foreign couterparts. H.E. Musaed Rashed A. Al-Haroun H.E. Daniel P.M.N.R. Leroy Ambassador, State of Kuwait Ambassador, Belgium H.E. Dr. M. R. Al-Hussaini Al-Sharif H.E. Shumin Lu Ambassador, Saudi Arabia Ambassador, President Natsagiyn Bagabandi Mr. Abbas Assemi People's Republic of China President, Mongolia Chargé d'Affaires, H.E. Alvaro M. Moerzinger Pagani President George W. Bush Embassy, Islamic Republic of Iran Ambassador, Uruguay President, United States of America H.E. Alan Baker H.E. Yiannis Mourikis President Vicente Fox Quesada Ambassador, Israel Ambassador, Greece President, United Mexican States M. Ante Barbir H.E. Sasko Nasev President Amadou Toumani Touré Chargé d'Affaires, Ambassador, former Yugoslav President, Mali Embassy, Republic of Croatia Republic of Macedonia H.E. Donald Bobiash ● ● ● H.E. Dr. Abdulla Abdulwali Nasher High Commissioner, Ambassador, Republic of Yemen Mr. Max Binder Republic of Ghana H.E. Sadaaki Numata Speaker, Ntl Council of Switzerland H.E. Juliette Bonkoungou Ambassador, Japan Mr. Paul Delorey Ambassador, Burkina Faso H.E. Piotr Ogrodzinski Speaker, Leg. Assembly of NWT H.E. Martin Burke Ambassador, Poland H.E. Ene Ergma Ambassador, Ireland H.E. Alvaro M. Moerzinger Pagani President, Riigikogu, Rep. of Estonia H.E. Marco Colombo Ambassador, Uruguay Sen. Raymundo Cardenas Hernandez Ambassador, Italy H.E. Pasi M. Patokallio Vice-President, Senate of Mexico H.E. José Miguel Cruz Sánchez Ambassador, Finland Hon. Kolawolé Idji Ambassador, Chile H.E. David N. Reddaway Speaker, Ntl Assembly of H.E. William N. Fisher High Commissioner, the Republic of Benin High Commissioner, Australia United Kingdom Honourable Matlapeng Ray Molomo H.E. Fakhraddin Gurbanov H.E. Jose E. Romero Speaker, Ntl Assembly, Ambassador, Ambassador, Republic of Peru Republic of Botswana Republic of Azerbaijan H.E. Jamil Sakr H. E. Longin Hieronim Pastusiak H.E. Eric Hayes Ambassador, Senate President, Republic of Poland Ambassador, Syrian Arab Republic H.E. Arturas Paulauskas European Commission H.E. Omar Samad Chairman, Seimas, H.E. Anthony John Hely Ambassador, Afghanistan Republic of Lithuania Former High Commissioner, H.E. Ernesto A. Senti Darias H.E. Tan Sri Dr. Abdul H. Pawanteh Australia Ambassador, Cuba President, H.E. J. GSTM Van Hellenberg Hubar H.E. Eki Syachrudin (Senate of Malaysia) Ambassador, Netherlands Former Ambassador, Indonesia Mr. Oum Sarith H.E. Kensaku Hogen H.E. Mohamed Tangi Secretary-General, Former Ambassador, Japan Ambassador, Senate of H.E. Daniel P.-H. Jouanneau Kingdom of Morocco H.E. Chan Ven Ambassador, France H.E. Perko Vukotic Deputy Secretary-General of H.E. Graham D. Kelly Ambassador, the National Assembly of Cambodia High Commissioner, New Zealand Serbia & Montenegro Hon. Margaret Wilson H.E. Poul Erik Dam Kristensen H.E. Pavel Vosalik Speaker, House of Representatives Ambassador, Denmark Ambassador, Czech Republic of New Zealand Mr. Argo Küünemäe H.E. Howar M. Ziad Chargé d'Affaires, Ambassador, Republic of Iraq Embassy, Estonia July 2005 Speaker’s Report Page 11 Diplomatic Corner

President George W. Bush n the occasion of the first official visit to Canada of O the President of the United States and Mrs. Laura Bush, the Speaker of the Senate, the Honourable Dan Hays and the Speaker of the House of Commons, the Honourable Peter Milliken had the honour of greeting the President and Mrs. Laura Bush upon their arrival to Parliament and host a welcoming ceremony in the Rotunda of Centre Block.

The President and Mrs. Bush signed the Distinguished Visitors Book of the Senate and of the House of Com- Background: The Usher of the Black Rod, LCdr Terrence J. Christopher, the mons. The Prime Minister and Mrs. Sheila Martin were Clerk of the Senate and Clerk of the Parliaments, Mr. Paul C. Bélisle, Senator Dan Hays, Mrs. Kathy Hays, Mrs. Sheila Martin, the Prime Minister also in attendance to witness the signature of the books. of Canada, the Right Hon. Paul Martin, the Speaker of the House of Commons, Hon. Peter Milliken, the Clerk of the House of Commons, Following the Welcoming Ceremony, Speaker Hays Mr. William Corbett, the Sergeant-at-Arms of the House of Commons, and Mrs. Hays accompanied Mrs. Bush to the Famous Major General Maurice Gaston Cloutier At the table: First Lady Laura Bush & President George W. Bush Five Monument on the grounds of Parliament Hill.

President Natsagiyn Bagabandi pon the occasion of his first visit to Canada, the A Speaker of the Senate, the Honourable Dan Hays and the Speaker of the House of Commons, the Honourable Peter Milliken welcomed the President of Mongolia to Parliament in the Rotunda of Centre Block.

Speaker Hays met privately with President Bagabandi and the Foreign Minister, His Excellency Tsend Munh-Orgil in order to discuss the many challenges Mongolia faces today. Following the meeting, the Speaker Left to right: The Usher of the Black Rod, LCdr Terrence J. Christopher, and Mrs. Hays hosted a luncheon for the President and Clerk of the Senate and Clerk of the Parliaments, Mr. Paul C. Bélisle, Mrs. Oyunbileg. Speaker Dan Hays, President Bagabandi, Speaker Peter Milliken, Clerk of the House of Commons, Mr. William Corbett & the Law Clerk and Parliamentary Counsel of the House of Commons, Mr. R.ob Walsh

President Vicente Fox Quesada he President of the United Mexican States and Mrs. T Marta Sahagun de Fox were officially received to Parliament by the Speaker of the Senate, the Honourable Dan Hays and the Speaker of the House of Commons, the Honourable Peter Milliken on October 25, 2004.

President Fox proceeded to address the Members of the Senate and Members of Parliament in a Joint Session in the House of Commons Chamber.

President Vicente Fox Quesada with Speaker Dan Hays. Page 12 Speaker’s Report July 2005 Diplomatic Corner

President Amadou Toumani Touré n the occasion of his first official visit to Canada, O the Speaker of the Senate, the Honourable Dan Hays, and the Speaker of the House of Commons, the Honourable Peter Milliken, welcomed the President of Mali to Parliament in the Rotunda of Centre Block.

Speaker Hays met privately with President Amadou Toumani Touré to discuss the economic challenges facing Mali today, as well as the excellent relations shared bet- ween the two countries. Following the meeting the Speaker and Mrs. Hays attended a formal state luncheon hosted by Governor General at Rideau Hall. Speaker Hays with the President of Mali, Amadou Toumani Touré

Belgium (September 2004) Germany (September 2004)

From September 19 to 21, 2004 Speaker Hays led a From September 21 to 26, 2004 Speaker Hays led a parliamentary delegation to Belgium, at the invitation of parliamentary delegation to Germany at the invitation of the Speaker of the Belgian Senate, Ms Anne-Marie Lizin. the President of the Bundesrat, Mr. Dieter Althaus, also the Premier of Thuringia. While in Belgium, the delegation was hosted by the Deputy Speaker of the Senate, Mr. Staf Nimmegeers (in Cooperation between Canadian provinces and the absence of the Speaker of the Belgian Senate, Ms German Laender is excellent and resulted in the Anne-Marie Lizin). The delegration met with members of following partnerships: Quebec and Bavaria, Alberta and the Belgian Federal Inter-Parliamentary Delegation for Saxony, and and Baden-Wuerttemberg are Canada; the Chair of the Committee on Agriculture of formally twinned. Four Canadian provinces are studying the European Parliament and French European Parlia- the German model of proportional representation as a ment Member, Mr. Joseph Daul; and the President of the consideration of electoral reform. There was “Cour d’Arbitrage” [court of arbitration], Mr. Alex Arts. opportunity to discuss issues of interest to Canadian and German parliamentarians: constitutional reform; At a time of European Union expansion, the Canadian federalism; multiculturalism; and agriculture. delegation was interested in hearing the perspective of one of the smallest EU members. The visit was also an While in Germany, Speaker Hays discussed Canadian occasion to compare Belgian, European, and Canadian interests and exchanged ideas on political issues with agriculture policies. Mr. Dieter Althaus, President of the Bundesrat, Dr. Herbert Knoblich, President of the Brandenburg’s Parliament and Dr. Norbert Lammert, Vice-President of the Bundestag.

Scotland (October 2004)

On October 9, 2004 Speaker Hays attended the offi- cial opening of the new Scottish Parliament, representing the . During this visit, he also had an opportunity to travel to Falkirk, Scotland to speak at a ceremony commemorating the centenary of the birth of Tommy Douglas. The German Reichstag in Berlin July 2005 Speaker’s Report Page 13 Diplomatic Corner

Afghanistan (December 2004) Foreign Affairs. The Canadian delegation gained valuable insight into the challenges facing societies wishing to On December 7, 2004 Speaker Hays attended the embrace democratic reforms. inauguration of the President of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai in Kabul on behalf of the Government of Canada. United Kingdom (January 2005)

While in attendance at the Presidential inauguration, From January 19-21, 2005 Speaker Hays led a and through his formal and informal meetings with parliamentary delegation travelled to the United members of the outgoing Afghanistan Transitional Kingdom. Administration and with representatives of various other countries, Speaker Hays helped to reinforce Canada’s The Canadian delegation gained knowledge and fundamental support for the Afghan people to build a understanding based on the information provided on the democratic, stable, and peaceful country. new security policies and practices implemented at the Palace of Westminster. The delegation was also able to The Speaker had the honour to meet with H.E. compare the provisions of the Freedom of Information Hamid Karzai, President of Afghanistan and Mr. Hedayat Act in the United Kingdom to those in place in Canada. Arsala, Vice-President of Afghanistan. Speaker Hays met with many very interesting people, United Arab Emirates (January 2005) including The Lord Brabazon of Tara, DL, The Right Hon. the Lord Carter, The Right Hon. the Lord Cope of For the first time ever, Speaker Hays led a Berkeley, Mr. Paul Hayter, Clerk of the Parliaments and parliamentary delegation to the United Arab Emirates, Clerk of the House of Lords, Lord Falconer of Thoroton, from January 13-16, 2005. Secretary of State and for Constitutional Affairs and Lord Chancellor, Lord Michael Levy, Personal Envoy on the The visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) provided Middle East for Prime Minister Tony Blair and Sir Michael the delegation with a better understanding of the socio Willcocks, KCB, Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod at political and economic dynamics of this Gulf States the Palace of Westminster. situated in the Middle East. The Speaker met with H.E. Mohammed Saeed Al-Kindi, Speaker of the Federation United Mexican States (January 2005) Council. From January 24-27, 2005 Speaker Hays and Speaker Kingdom of Bahrain (January 2005) Peter Milliken, of the House of Commons, led a joint parliamentary delegation to the XIIIth Mexico-Canada From January 16-19 2005, Speaker Hays led a Inter-Parliamentary Meeting, held in Mexico City. parliamentary delegation to the Kingdom of Bahrain. In November 2004, following the visit of His It was a chance for the Canadian delegation to gain Excellency Vicente Fox, President of Mexico to Canada, insight about the substantive democratic reforms that the it was decided among Canadian and Mexican Kingdom of Bahrain has undergone. In February 2002, parliamentarians that there was a need to raise the level King Hamad bin Isa AL Khalifa transformed Bahrain from of the existing parliamentary relations between the two an emirate to a constitutional monarchy and established countries. As a result of this for the first time since the a National Assembly with an elected chamber and an inaugural meeting in 1975, both Canadian Speakers and appointed council each with 40 members. Elections were both Mexican Speakers were present at the Mexico City held in 2002 for the first time in nearly thirty years and Meeting. women were allowed to vote and run as candidates. Speaker Hays was honoured to be able to visit Mr. Speaker Hays had the opportunity to better Vicente Fox Quesada, President of the United Mexican understand the new constitutional monarchy during his States during his time in Mexico. conversation with H.E. Mr. Mohammed Bin Mubarak Al-Khalifa, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Page 14 Speaker’s Report July 2005 Diplomatic Corner

Trinidad and Tobago (February 2005) H.E. Drs. H. Muhammad Jusuf Kalla, Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia; Prof. Dr. Ir. Ginandjar Kartasas- From February 21 to 22, 2005, Speaker Hays mita, Chairman of the Regional Representative Assembly; attended the 13th Biennial Conference of Presiding H.E. Mr. Agung Laksono, Chairman of the People’s Officers and Clerks of the Caribbean, the Americas and Representative Assembly; as well as religious leaders, the Atlantic Region of the Commonwealth Parliamentary members of the business community, and media Association in Port-of-Spain in the Republic of Trinidad representatives. and Tobago. United Mexican States (April 2005) This conference helped to reinforce Canada’s fundamental support of enhancing the Parliamentary From April 27 to 29, Speaker Hays traveled to process and its belief in the positive outcome that Mexico City to represent the Government of Canada at participation in such events can bring. It also highlighted the annual Canadian Chamber of Commerce in the importance that Canada places on its relationship Mexico Day 2005. This year’s theme was with its counterparts from the Caribbean. Competitiveness and the Canada-Mexico Business Relationship. Uruguay (February & March 2005) The event, which was widely reported upon in local From February 28 to March Speaker Hays traveled to media, was given even further status by the participation Uruguay to represent Canada at the investiture of new of President Vicente Fox Quesada, who communicated Uruguayan President, Tabaré Vazquez, on March 1, 2005. the importance and significance which Mexico attaches to The Speaker held a number of meetings with the new bilateral relations with Canada and with our business authorities the President of the Permanent Commission community. of Mercosur, Mr. Eduardo Duhalde, and with Canadian and Uruguayan business representatives. In his speech at the Chamber, Speaker Hays applauded the efforts that Canada and Mexico have made Uruguay’s new centre-left government is made up of to improve their relationship, and noted that these various coalition parties. The Encuentro relations have never been more promising. Progresista-Frente Amplio (EP-FA) successfully gained control of government from Uruguay’s two traditional While in Mexico City Speaker Hays also attended a ruling political parties for the first time. lunch meeting at the official residence of Canada’s Ambassador to Mexico, Gaëtan Lavertu, with members Republic of Indonesia (March 2005) of Canada’s business community in Mexico.

From March 14 to 17, 2005 Speaker Hays led a parliamentary delegation to the Republic of Indonesia at Please note that the Department of the invitation of H.E. Dr. Hidayat Nur Wahid, Chairman Foreign Affairs and Diplomatic Trade of the People’s Consultative Assembly of the Republic of offers a complete list of Canadian Indonesia. Representatives Abroad at the following web address: The international response to the tsunami was rapid www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/world/ and generous. The Canadian government committed embassies/cra-en.asp . $425 million toward a comprehensive response to the tsunami devastation in South and Southeast Asia. Canada As part of an ongoing effort to improve the process is the seventh-largest bilateral donor placing it ahead of of accountability and transparency, the Speaker invites all other G8 countries. you to read the Official Visits Reports on his web site: www.sen.parl.gc.ca/dhays/visits-en.htm . While in Jakarta, the Canadian delegation had the You may also wish to register online to obtain an e-mail honour to meet with: H.E. Dr. Hidayat Nur Wahid, notification on the tabling of upcoming Official Visits Chairman of the People’s Consultative Assembly; reports. July 2005 Speaker’s Report Page 15

1. Address to the Inauguration Ceremony, Salón de Actos, Palacio de Minería (Mexico) 2. Official book signing with the President of the House of Representatives in Berlin, Mr. Walter Momper 3. While on visit of the Branitz Castle in Germany 4. Speaker Milliken and Speaker Hays at the XIIIth Mexico-Canada Inter-Parliamentary Meeting 5. Meeting with H.E. Dr. Hidayat Nur Wahid, Chairman of the People’s Consul- tative Assembly of the Republic of Indonesia 6. Helping out in the Republic of Indonesia 7. With Canadian Ambassador in Mexico Gaëtan Lavertu and Mrs. Donate Lavertu. Page 16 Speaker’s Report July 2005 News from our office

Il y eu plusieurs changements dans mon cabinet depuis mon dernier bulletin. To those who have who have served and moved on to other jobs I offer them my my gratitude for a job well-done and wish them well in their future

Jodi Turner

Jodi was the Speaker’s Chief of Staff from April 2002 to December 2005. She now works as a Committee Clerk in the Senate.

Justin Thind

Justin was the Speaker’s Special Assistant in Calgary from May 2003 to April 2005. Justin has moved to where he is completing his law articles.

Christine Holke David

Christine worked as the Speaker’s Special Assistant until September 2004, when she accepted a position with International and Interparliamentary Affairs as a Parliamentary Exchanges Officer.

Grant Holly

Grant worked for the Speaker from May 2003 to October 2004 and was primarily responsible for the Speaker’s web site, the Speaker’s report and assisting with the annual diplomatic corps event in Calgary

Kevin Guérin

Kevin took over as the Chief of staff in January 2005. On detachment from the Ministry of the Environment, Kevin’s responsibilities revolve around all major office decisions and managing the Speaker’s office staff.

Jolène Savoie

Jolène became the Speaker’s Special Assistant in September 2004. Her duties include coordinating the Speaker’s schedule, handling all correspondence, as well as directing the calls in the office.

Matthieu Boulianne

Matthieu joined our team in October 2004. His responsibilities include updating the Speaker’s web site, coordinating with the printing of the Speaker’s Report, and dealing with technical calls in the office.

Bryndis Whitson

Bryndis became the new Special Assistant to Senaor Hays in Calgary, Alberta. Bryndis brings to the position an indepth understanding of Canada and of the Calgary community.

Questions? Comments? Contact us in Ottawa, Calgary or Online.

Ottawa: Calgary: Online:

Senator Dan Hays Senator Dan Hays  www.sen.parl.gc.ca/dhays Speaker of the Senate Speaker of the Senate [email protected] Parliament Hill 650, 1207-11th Avenue SW Ottawa, ON K1A 0A4 Calgary, AB T3C 0M5 1.800.267.7362 [Toll Free] 1.613.992.4416 1.403.244.3111 1.613.995.3286 [Fax] 1.403.244.3128 [Fax]

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