New Gov. Gen. David Johnston calls for
'smart and caring nation'
Martin O'Hanlon, The Canadian Press
OTTAWA - Canada's new Governor General is trumpeting families, learning and giving as the keys to the country's future as a "smart and caring nation."
In his first speech after being sworn in as vice-regal today, David Johnston held out those themes as the focus of his five-year term in office.
"I see my role as a bridge in bringing people of all backgrounds and ages together to create a Smart and Caring Nation, a nation that will inspire not just Canadians but the entire world," he told a packed Senate chamber.
"When we set our sights together, we can do better and inspire each other to achieve great things."
Johnston said he will focus on support for families and children, reinforcing learning and innovation, and encouraging philanthropy and volunteerism.
Minutes earlier, a 21-gun salute shook the air over Parliament Hill and the Governor General's blue flag was hoisted atop the Peace Tower as Johnston was sworn in by the chief justice of the Supreme Court.
An audience of dignitaries, including the prime minister, opposition leaders, three former prime ministers, MPs, senators, and Supreme Court justices in their red-velvet, fur-trimmed robes, gave Johnston a standing ovation.
Outgoing Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean and her husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, hugged each other as they entered the Senate chamber and were greeted by a standing ovation and handshakes from many of the guests.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper hailed Johnston as a "guardian" of the tradition of community service. He said the Sudbury native and former university president represents the best of Canada.
"All through his life, David Johnston has been driven by the intense belief that service is not merely an option. It is a duty, an obligation of the heart that honour compels a man to accept," Harper said.
"This tradition of service will carry our beloved country forward into the future. And tradition, ladies and gentlemen, is the rope that binds the generations, past and future, the threads that form the fabric of society.
"Sir, you have a great role to play as guardian of those traditions and of all that makes our country great."
Johnston and his wife, Sharon, were greeted by the prime minister and a military guard of honour as they emerged from a limousine beneath the Peace Tower on a bright, crisp autumn day.
The Usher of the Black Rod led the procession through the marbled Hall of Honour to the Senate chamber for speeches and the swearing-in. Along the way, the couple was handed roses by 13 Canadians representing each province and territory.
Johnston has a long list of academic achievements, a background in law and widespread respect for his innovative thinking.
The 69-year-old, who has five daughters and seven grandchildren, takes over from Jean, who completed her last official act Thursday by planting a sapling on the grounds of Rideau Hall.
Harper also paid tribute to Jean in his speech.
"Through her remarkable story, her extraordinary personal qualities and her tenure in office, Michaelle Jean has earned the lasting respect and gratitude of her country," he said.
