John Weston, member of Parliament (West Vancouver - Sunshine Coast - Sea to Sky Country), introduced his second private member's bill, on Sept. 24 to formalize national health and fitness day, supported by MPs from various parties and fitness advocates around the country.
By encouraging local governments across Canada to open their recreational facilities on a complimentary basis on the first Saturday of June each year, Weston hopes to make gains in the health of Canadians and the economy. After Weston introduced the Bill, supporters walked from the steps of the House of Commons to the steps of Ottawa City Hall to reflect the partnership between federal and local governments in encouraging health and fitness.
"I am delighted at the widespread support," said Weston, who developed unanimous support in both Houses for his first private member's bill, C-475, that dealt with crystal meth and ecstasy drugs. "We should be aiming to be the fittest nation on earth. People from all parties and backgrounds are realizing that together we can improve people's health, reduce health care costs, and benefit the economy."
There will be a celebration of the Bill in Weston's riding, starting at the West Vancouver Community Centre, at 8:30 a.m., on Saturday, Sept 29 (www.johnweston.ca).
A dedicated day for health and fitness is already fully endorsed by the 12 municipalities in Weston's riding. The Bill is a natural progression from the Parliamentary Fitness Initiative, a multi-party attempt by Weston and other MPs, such as Peter Stoffer (NDP - Sackville - Eastern Shore) and Kirsty Duncan (Liberal - Etobicoke North), to model healthy habits by running and swimming together.
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