Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the contributions of Jack McCarthy to our community in Ottawa.

On April 16, Ottawa will celebrate twenty years of Jack’s work as the Executive Director of Somerset West Community Health Centre.

Jack is a community builder. He is passionate for social justice. He believes in people and empowers them. At his core, he embodies a humanitarian commitment to all regardless of race, class, or gender.

As a result, Jack has led our community by bringing a diversity of voices together from across Ottawa.

From the time he began his career as a child protection worker, his advocacy for affordable housing, education, employment, and health promotion has made our community stronger.

Jack embodies the notion of thinking globally and acting locally. He’s used his experience in community development to benefit thousands of people here and abroad.

Mr. Speaker, we thank Jack McCarthy for his years of commitment to our community.