Ottawa, ON — The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition, released the following statement on Portuguese Heritage Month: 

“In May of 1953, a group of Portuguese immigrants said their emotional goodbyes to their homeland as they departed from the legendary Portuguese shores aboard the ocean liner Saturnia. They did this to secure a brighter future for themselves, their loved ones and future generations of their families. Five days later, they would land in Halifax. Their arrival on Canadian shores set the stage for generations of Portuguese immigrants who would choose to make Canada their new permanent home.  

“Every June, Canadians come together to mark Portuguese Heritage Month, providing each of us with an opportunity to highlight the richness of Portuguese culture and traditions. This year, we celebrate this occasion with renewed pride as we recognize 70 years of Portuguese immigration to Canada.  

“All these years later, we honour those brave people who journeyed to Canada in 1953. By banding together for freedom and opportunity, they became pioneers of a new era and made countless contributions that helped to build our great country.  

“Today, Canada is blessed to be home for one of the largest Portuguese diasporas in the world, with nearly half a million Portuguese Canadians who continue to enrich our country with a wealth of art, music, food, and traditions. Together, we honour their story and celebrate their many successes. 

“As you come together to remember the tales of your ancestors and honour the achievements of the Portuguese community, I send my best wishes to Luso-Canadians across the country as you celebrate your heritage.  

“Happy Portuguese Heritage Month!”