Hello, everyone. Thank you for being here today.

Let me begin by recognizing that we are on the traditional land of the Algonquin People.

We acknowledge them as past, present, and future caretakers of this land.

Canada is a place defined by people.

By people who serve those around them.

Who tackle big challenges with hope and determination.

And above all, who never stop working to build a brighter tomorrow.

In other words, people like Mary Simon.

Frankly, we need more leaders like Ms. Simon in high office – people who understand what it means to take on real issues and create positive change.

And that’s exactly what brings us here today.

This morning, I can announce that on my recommendation, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has approved the appointment of Ms. Mary Simon as the 30^th Governor General of Canada.

Hailing from Nunavik in northern Quebec, Ms. Simon has spent a lifetime working on behalf of those around her.

In the last few years, she was the chairperson of the National Committee on Inuit Education, and before that served as the President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami.

Throughout her career, whether protecting Inuit Nunangat - the Arctic - as an advocate for Inuit rights and culture, or as a broadcaster with CBC, Ms. Simon’s example is one of dedicated service.

I know that Ms. Simon will bring her vision for a stronger Canada for everyone as she takes on this high office.

Because from her years of experience, to the countless honours she has received, Ms. Simon has long fought for a just, fair country for all.

Ms. Simon’s career of leadership and service has always been one of breaking down barriers:

She was the first Inuk to hold a position as a Canadian ambassador – representing Canada as both the Ambassador of Circumpolar Affairs and as our Ambassador to Denmark.

Ms. Simon worked on the implementation of the first land claims agreement in Canada – for James Bay and Northern Quebec.

And now, we are honoured to have Ms. Simon as Canada’s first Indigenous Governor General.

Canada is a big country.

Canada is a diverse country.

So it is only by reaching out to those around us, it is only by building bridges between people in the North and South, just like in the East and West, that we can truly move forward.

Mary Simon has done that throughout her life.

I know she will help continue paving that path ahead.

And we will all be stronger for it.  

Today, after 154 years, our country takes a historic step.

I cannot think of a better person to meet the moment. 

With that, it is a true honour to introduce Canada’s Governor General Designate, Ms. Mary Simon.