Yes, thank you. I would like to thank the Members for allowing me to complete my statement. Finally, it would be wrong for me not to mention our secret weapon. Without a doubt, the most improved player on the team was my friend, the Hon. Dennis Patterson. Honourable Members interested in our rich parliamentary history will know that last year, in Fort Resolution, Mr. Patterson did win the prestigious "Bambi on Ice" award. Believe me, Mr. Speaker, there has been a substantial improvement. Now, instead of Bambi on ice, he looks more like the Roadrunner. His playing style reminded me of his usual reply to the Opening Address here in the House; once he winds up and gets going, there is no stopping him.
---Laughter
---Applause
In fact, one of the most exciting plays of the game occurred when Mr. Patterson dished out a punishing bodycheck on the MLA for Nahendeh. Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, they both happened to be on the same team.
---Laughter
Further, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Patterson showed his usual fine understanding of the relationship between politicians and public servants by repeatedly checking his own deputy minister -- his team mate, Al Menard -- and taking the puck away from him. And Mr. Menard, being a perfect example of a civil servant, allowed Mr. Patterson to do that.
A special thanks goes to our coach, the honourable Member for High Arctic. As the Dean of this Assembly, Mr. Pudluk brought his wisdom and experience and sense of humour to the game in the same way in which he brings it to our House as Deputy Speaker.
Many other MLAs were in attendance at this special event, Mr. Speaker, but did not have the opportunity to lace up the skates.
I must say that we all enjoyed the excellent feast put on by the people of Fort Liard, and we appreciated the first-rate organization which surrounded the opening festivities. I am certain that I speak for all my honourable colleagues, and especially for our team of hockey all-stars, in thanking Mr. Jim Antoine, Chief Stephen Kotchea, Mayor Dale Hoose, and all the people of Fort Liard for their hospitality. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause