Mr. Speaker, it is with great humility and gratitude that I rise today to speak for the first time in the House as the member for the new riding of Mont‑Saint‑Bruno—L'Acadie.

First, I would like to warmly thank the citizens of Mont‑Saint‑Bruno—L'Acadie who elected me and placed their trust in me to be their voice here in Ottawa. They have entrusted me with their voice and the responsibility to raise our concerns, defend our needs and make the realities of our community heard right here in this fine institution. Their voices will accompany me to Ottawa every day.

I would also like to acknowledge Ludovic Grisé, mayor of Saint‑Bruno‑de‑Montarville, who is here with us today. He has brought a breath of fresh air to the community ever since he was elected, first as a city councillor in 2019 and then as mayor in 2021. His youth, unwavering dedication and sincere love for his city make him an inspiring, accessible elected official who is deeply invested in our community's development. I look forward to working with him to advance our joint goals in a spirit of mutual respect, dialogue and lasting partnership.

As a father of four, I am especially proud to be a member of Parliament at a time when our government is taking concrete action to provide relief to Canadian families. For instance, the recently announced tax cut plan will provide real, significant tax relief to the middle class. People will see concrete results right away. Starting in 2026, a two-income family will save up to $840 a year. In all, some 22 million Canadians will benefit from this tax cut. As of July 1, 2025, the lowest marginal tax rate will drop from 15% to 14%. Over a five-year period, tax cuts will put more than $27 billion back in taxpayers' pockets. This is a major step forward for our country. I strongly believe that well-thought-out policy results in measures that make a real difference in people's everyday lives by providing relief, lifting us up and uniting us all.

With that, I would like to draw everyone's attention to an important event called Afrique en lumière, a celebration in honour of Africa Day, organized by Lève‑toi et brille in partnership with the Fédération Africaine et Associations du Canada.

As the first Canadian MP of Congolese origin, this moment really resonated with me. It reminded me of where I come from and of what we can build together when we come from a place of respect and solidarity.

Finally, I would like to express my deep gratitude to all the House of Commons employees for their warm welcome, their support and their exemplary professionalism since I arrived here. I would also like to thank my fellow members for their kindness, their advice and the spirit of co-operation I sense in this institution.

I am beginning my mandate with respect, determination and hope. I am here to serve. I am here to build. I am here to speak on behalf of Mont-Saint-Bruno—L'Acadie and on behalf of a strong Quebec in a strong Canada that is in charge of its economy.

Bienvenu-Olivier Ntumba