Ottawa, Ontario – The Member of Parliament for Chatham-Kent Essex, Dave Van Kesteren, rose today in the House of Commons and delivered the following statement:

“Thank you Mr. Speaker. In the early morning of June 6th 2010, a category F2 tornado ripped through the community of Leamington, Ontario, leaving behind structural damage and clean up estimated in the millions of dollars. Thankfully not a single human life was lost nor injury reported. What has transpired in the days following is a community pulling together; neighbours helping neighbours, municipal employees and volunteers working around the clock, churches and organizations preparing meals and places to sleep.  I am also proud to say that our government has taken swift action to offer assistance where possible. I would like to commend Mayor John Adams, the administration, police and fire departments, as well as the entire emergency response team for their first class handling of this disaster. Finally and most importantly to the residents of Leamington, the resilience you have shown during these tough days makes it an honour and a privilege to be your federal representative.”

The remarks were delivered during Statements by Members, a daily proceeding of the House of Commons.  Members are given up to a minute to address the House before the start of Question Period each day.