Mr. Speaker, yesterday, the country lost more than a voice. René Homier‑Roy, a broadcaster, cultural critic and, as he liked to say, professional spectator, has died at age 85. He had just hung up his microphone and retired.
René, today, I am listening to my gut, as you taught me to do. I will not talk about you, René. Instead, I will talk directly to you.
René, my dear mentor, I spent 10 years by your side and 43 years listening to you, appreciating your quick wit, your uniqueness and the depth of your knowledge and experience.
René, you had the strength to resist complacency. You never believed in objectivity. You took the path of honesty.
René, you are a great communicator. The capacity to listen is a talent that you certainly had, coupled with your curiosity.
René, I hope that wherever you are, it is very entertaining.
Farewell, René.