Good morning.

I'm honoured to be in Cape Breton today to recognize the invaluable contributions of Canada's peacekeepers by designating Highway 125 as Peacekeepers Way.

For many people around the globe, the maple leaf is a beacon for freedom and justice. And the thousands of Canadian Forces members, police and civilians who have served as peacekeepers are a natural extension of Canada's commitment to these ideals.

Since the 1950s, Canadians have been at the forefront of peacekeeping. So much so, that it has become part of our national heritage and our national identity.

Canadians have served in more than 40 peacekeeping missions. Sacrificing their own safety to protect the lives and liberties of others. In fact more than 100 Canadian peacekeepers have lost their lives. Hundreds more have been wounded.

Despite the dangers, Canadians have always gone where they are needed. And Nova Scotians – many of you here today – have answered the call, in large numbers. With the designation of Highway 125 as Peacekeepers Way, we are saluting the service and sacrifice of Nova Scotia's peacekeepers.

People like John Horvath. John did two tours in the Gaza Strip in the late 50s and early 60s. He has fond memories of making a difference– working along side other professional and committed Canadians.

Or Tom White. As a peacekeeper, Tom spent time in the Congo – where he was injured – in the Sinai and in the Gaza Strip. He remembers the gratitude of students at a damaged Gaza Strip school, after Canadian Peacekeepers fashioned a new roof for the school out of canvas and new windows out of plastic.

Or CBRM Constable Ken Routlege. Constable Routledge serves our province as a police officer in Membertou. But he has done two six-month tours in Jordan, training Iraqi police cadets. And right now he is making final preparations of an upcoming mission in Afghanistan.

From now on, as Nova Scotians and visitors travel Peacekeepers Way, they will be reminded of the dedication, professionalism and sacrifice of our Canadian peacekeeping heroes.

With this gesture, we are paying tribute to their work and saluting their legacy of peace.

I want to take a moment to thank the peacekeepers here today for all they have done for our country and for people throughout the world.

I hope when you travel on Peacekeepers Way you will remember the gratitude and admiration we all feel for you.

Thank you.