Our new Governor General

Yesterday, I had the great honour of meeting our new Governor General, the Right Honourable David Johnston, during an official welcoming ceremony. The ceremony was held in the front hall of Queen’s Park and attended by Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, the Premier of Ontario and other dignitaries, including the heads of political parties. It was a solemn and dignified affair that featured heart-warming moments with several of David Johnston’s grand children in attendance. It also was entirely conducted in both official languages. Even the school children’s choir sang our national anthem in both English and French. No admissible complaints to my office, I can assure you! 

The Governor General delivered an inspired speech that didn’t shy away from issues of provincial jurisdiction. For instance, David Johnston reminded parliamentarians that he expected to see follow-up to his report on adoption and infertility, presented in 2009. Incidentally, this excellent report also looks at the specific situations of Francophone parents who have chosen adoption and the issue of French-speaking children who are wards of the state. 

David Johnston also reaffirmed the importance of the three pillars that were part of his inauguration speech: education, innovation and community engagement. And clearly, our new Governor General practices what he preaches. Not only is he fully bilingual, he is also a warm, charming, and kind-hearted person. 

Today, I’m on the road to Hearst… and I will fill you in on the details on Monday!