London, Ontario, Saturday, March 16, 2013

It is wonderful to be in London today with all of you. Sharon and I are looking forward to watching some of the incredible competition at the World Figure Skating Championships.

Let me say a special welcome to all the international participants who have joined us here to mark this special occasion. I am so proud that Canada is able to host skaters, coaches and teams from around the world, and I hope that you will take some time to discover the Canadian experience.

The success of these championships would not be possible without the support of the community and volunteers who, time and again, have proven themselves ready to build a better community and country.

I could not, in good conscience, leave here without acknowledging some of those same people with us here today.

The Caring Canadian Award is near and dear to me, given my focus throughout my mandate on volunteerism and philanthropy. Those who give of their time, talent and resources so that the community can thrive deserve not just our thanks, but also our recognition.

They create a better country because they believe that it can be done. Their actions inspire us to do more, to be more caring, to really consider how we can help even more.

That is why it is so important for me to honour these individuals: they are the personification of the smart and caring nation I have been speaking of since I became governor general.

Today, we honour those who have directly contributed to these championships, as well as others who have done so much to help others have special on-ice experiences. We are grateful for what you do, and this is but a small way to say thank you.

I congratulate all of the recipients, and I wish the best of luck to all those who are a part of these championships.

Thank you.