Local MP John Weston this week introduced his second private member’s bill, this one seeking to formalize National Health and Fitness Day.

The second term MP for West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky hopes the bill, introduced in the House of Commons on Monday (Sept. 24), will encourage local governments to open their recreational facilities on a complimentary basis on the first Saturday of June each year.

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,” Weston said in a statement. “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.” 

“I hope that National Health and Fitness Day will achieve its objective of getting more Canadians to participate in fitness and sports activities,” said B.C. Senator Nancy Greene-Raine, an Olympic ski champion. “The more we can do to encourage Canadians to be physically active, the more we will help prevent chronic disease and reduce escalating health care costs.”