Remarks at the Citation for Citizenship Award Ceremony Honouring Catholic Social Services

Canada Place, 9700 Jasper Ave., Edmonton

October 17, 2003

It is an honour to attend this ceremony recognizing members of  Catholic Social Services who will receive a Citation for Citizenship award.

On Aug 3 1961, Msgr. Bill Irwin, with $15,000 dollars from Archbishop MacDonald and Bill's mother, was able to open Catholic Social Services in 2 rooms with one assistant. It has now grown to 1200 employees in nine Albertan centres.

Let me tell you a short story about the work of Catholic Social Services near Manila, in the Philippines. It has provided help for a school and other families living near the Manila garbage dump. When I asked some children what they would like to do when they grow up, they gave very much the same responses as school children in Edmonton would give. They wanted to be doctors, lawyers, teachers, and various other professions.

One of your most important roles is assisting newcomers to relocate and adjust to life in Alberta. By offering comprehensive language, education, employment, and outreach programs to immigrants and refugees, Catholic Social Services offsets the burden many new Canadians feel as they learn to integrate and participate in their new community.

Let me again offer congratulations to all of you today. Please keep up your wonderful work.

Thank you.