Although I have begun some French lessons, I don't think I will ever be really proficient, but I am doing my best. So, I will make a few comments in French this morning, while the remainder of my speech will be in English. I hope you can bear with me. As the theme of your meeting so aptly expresses, the rural nature of this country is a significant part of our heritage. It has had an important influence on our development not only economically, but in helping to shape our values as a country and as individuals.
Some people think rural means farmers.
I am sure you would agree that it is much more than agriculture. It is mining, fishing, forestry, energy, and small enterprise. It is economic, social, environment and culture. Bottom line rural is really about people. It is individuals, working together.