This year’s Speech from the Throne was quickly eclipsed by the delivery of Budget 2010 the following day, but there are several points in the speech that bear repeating.

Canada’s Constitution dictates that the throne speech is typically delivered by the Governor General on behalf of Canada’s Head of State, who is currently Queen Elizabeth II. Over the years, the contents have come to be prepared by the government of the day. The throne speech informs Canadians of the federal government’s plans for the future, and the budget follows up by illustrating how we’re going to get there.

The speech delivered by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada on March 3 notes that Canada is coming out of the recession with one of the strongest economies in the world. The government’s priorities right now include protecting incomes, creating jobs, easing credit markets, and helping workers and communities get back on their feet.

The governor-general delivered her address to a packed Senate to open the Third Session of Canada’s 40th Parliament. She reminded Canadians of our country’s accomplishments since the last session, including the Olympic Winter Games, the quick response to the disaster in Haiti and the ongoing success of the Government’s Economic Action Plan. Her message made it clear that the government’s top priority in the new session is to focus on jobs and economic growth.

We plan to strengthen the Universal Child Care Benefit, protect consumers, and ensure that the law protects everyone. And, those who commit crimes will be held to account.

We have listened to Canadians and are responding with a stronger retirement income system to stand up for those who helped build this country. We will advocate legislation to establish a special Seniors’ Day, as well as provide support for our military and its veterans.

The government also plans to pursue democratic reforms and improve our immigration system to assist persons who want to move here and those who live here already. We will also help the North realize and develop its vast potential as we protect and preserve our natural environment from coast to coast.

The Speech from the Throne can be found as a hotlink on the Government of Canada web site at www.gc.ca. It serves as a reminder that Canadians can pull together and put our shoulders to the wheel to overcome difficult times.

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