Ottawa, ON – The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, released the following statement on Portugal Day:
“Today, millions of Portuguese around the world are joining to celebrate Portugal Day, commemorating the death and legacy of national hero, poet and author Luis de Camões.
“Canadians of Portuguese descent are also marking Portuguese Heritage Month, an opportunity to celebrate the Portuguese community’s rich history of contributions to our country, predating even Canada itself.
“From the age of exploration, the pioneering spirit of Portuguese adventurers trailblazed a path of discovery and innovation that laid the foundation for the Canada we know and love. It is this same spirit of freedom that inspired future generations to make Canada their new permanent home.
“Today, Canada is blessed to be the home to one of the largest Portuguese diasporas in the world, with nearly half a million Canadians sharing Portuguese heritage, faithfully carrying forward their ancestors’ traditions and contributions that have strengthened our common home.
“As we celebrate these historic ties that bind Canada and Portugal together, I wish all Canadians of Portuguese descent a Happy Portugal Day and a Happy Portuguese Heritage Month.”