Rideau Hall, Friday, May 12, 2017

I begin by acknowledging that this gathering is taking place on the traditional territory of the Algonquin peoples.

Welcome, everyone, to Rideau Hall!

You may have noticed the vibrant, upbeat, classically modern tune that was played when you walked in.

Don’t try to place the music, though, as it’s making its world debut right here!

To mark the 50th anniversary of the Order of Canada, the Chancellery of Honours commissioned an original piece of music.

It’s called, appropriately enough, the “Recipients’ March.”

This processional—which will be played at all Order of Canada investiture ceremonies, from this point forward—was composed by a talented young musician with the Central Band of the Canadian Armed Forces, Warrant Officer Simon Paré. 

Warrant Officer Paré volunteered many hours to make sure this project was completed. His creativity and dedication are evident in every note.

And he was not alone in this endeavour. He was mentored by composer François Dompierre, Member of the Order of Canada, who helped him find the right note for you, our recipients.

We’re delighted to have Warrant Officer Paré with us today.

I’d like to thank you for writing the soundtrack to the Order of Canada, and for creating this inspiring piece of Canadian musical history.

The “Recipients’ March” is a celebration of those who have worked tirelessly to build a better Canada, those who have been honoured as Companions, Officers and Members of the Order of Canada.

People like you who we honour today.

You come from different backgrounds and fields of endeavour. Your impact is felt across Canada and around the world.

And you have each in your own way created smarter, fairer, more caring and more forward-looking communities.

And you have enacted the motto of the Order of Canada: “They desire a better country.”

You have shown your desire and your passion for a better Canada throughout your lives. Your accomplishments speak volumes.

But today is not only a day to look back on what you’ve achieved. Today is a day to look to the future, to imagine the possibilities for our country.

This year, Canada turns 150 years old! It’s an occasion to ask ourselves:

What do we want our country to look like on its 200th birthday?

What legacy will we leave for generations to come?

How do we ensure that hard work, determination and ingenuity continue to be recognized and rewarded in Canada?

We look to you for inspiration and leadership.

So let’s be motivated by your past achievements and use that momentum to propel us in the future.

Congratulations on this well-deserved honour. Wear your pin with pride. Canada has great pride in you.

Thank you.