Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, colleagues. As the departments of Health and Social Services become amalgamated, the face of health care systems will change. But one thing is certain, and that is the ongoing need for nurses to become an integral part of the new health system.
One of our national slogans is "nurses make the difference." And anyone who has been ill can attest to the truth of that statement. Although we are all in the midst of change, we can be sure that we will always need nurses in our lives and in our communities. They have won a special place in our hearts and a great deal of respect in our communities. So, as our nursing students prepare to graduate, I would like them to know how welcome they will be and how proud we are of them. Thank you.
---Applause