Charlottetown, Monday, November 8, 2010

It was an honour for me to have been invited to deliver the keynote address at the prestigious Symons Lecture today. Sharon and I have looked forward to our visit in Prince Edward Island, and you have not disappointed us by your warm welcome.

Visiting PEI makes me reflect on those seminal discussions the Fathers of Confederation undertook in the years leading up to Confederation.

Imagine, for a moment, the gravity of their task and the boldness of their work—as they laid the constitutional foundations of a new country; established the institutions that would govern us for years to come; divided powers between different levels of government; and enshrined their belief in peace, order and good government.

I think we would all agree with the words carved in bronze, right here in this chamber, “Providence being their guide, they builded better than they knew.”

Again, we have been so warmly welcomed that we feel part of the family. I am very impressed after our visit of Province House. We have so many highlights of our day, that it is quite difficult to mention them all.

However, as the former President of McGill and Waterloo universities, I must mention how much I enjoyed meeting students that came from many universities in the Maritimes. I am always keen in meeting and exchanging views and ideas with students.

I would like to thank you for inviting Sharon and I to your beautiful island. We have been here before and will be back many times again.