Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, today I rise to put my name forward for Speaker. Sorry, I am a little emotional right now. I didn't get much sleep last night. In doing so, I am withdrawing my name for Premier.
Mr. Chair, this was a difficult decision to make. I appreciated the support, encouragement of my colleagues, constituents, and family in pursuing the leadership role in this 20th Assembly. Over the last few weeks, many have encouraged me to consider the role as Speaker. They've noted that they need for leadership in the House. They've expressed the need for more respectful tone and debate in this chamber. They have said we need to act in a manner that is respectful of each other and respectful to the trust our residents have placed in us.
Mr. Chair, I believe in consensus government. But I also know that there can't be consensus without conflict. As an Assembly, conflict can be productive. It can generate new ideas and new energies. However while we need conflict, we do not need confrontation. Confrontation is not productive; it drains energy, it backs people into a corner. Our constituents deserve better, and our territory deserves better.
In encouraging me to run for the Speaker, people have noted that I have served on both sides of this chamber as a regular Member and as a Minister. I understand what it is like to be on both sides, asked and answer the questions. I have questioned Ministers and responded to questions as a Minister.
I was prepared to continue to stand for Premier. If unsuccessful, I was prepared to stand for Cabinet, and I was prepared to be a Regular MLA. I am here to serve my constituents. However, in discussions with my colleagues, it is clear that it is an important leadership role and this Assembly needs it to be fulfilled. This Assembly needs somebody who is more than a referee, someone who needs -- we need somebody who will be a coach, someone to help Members understand their roles and procedures and help to best work on behalf of their constituents.
With the support of my family, my friends, and my colleagues, I am prepared to fill that role. Thank you, Mr. Chair.