Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as many of you know, the Premier of New Brunswick, the Honourable Frank McKenna, resigned Wednesday after ten years as the leader of that province. When Premier McKenna first took office in 1987, the province of New Brunswick faced some serious financial problems. Under his leadership and direction, however, that picture has changed, and New Brunswick is now one of the bright spots in Canada in terms of economic development. An experienced and popular politician, Premier McKenna is not only dedicated to the people of New Brunswick but to all Canadians because of his commitment to Canadian unity. He is also a strong advocate for literacy, and has received international recognition for his efforts in that area.

Mr. Speaker, over this past year, Premier McKenna served as the Chairman of the Annual Premiers' Conference and hosted the Premiers at our meeting in New Brunswick this August.

More recently, in September, he chaired the Premiers' meeting on National Unity. At both of those meetings, he helped to ensure the Northwest Territories had an equal voice at the national level, and he expressed a great deal of interest in the unique challenges we face in the north.

Mr. Speaker, it has been a pleasure and an honour to work with Premier McKenna. He is, in fact, one of the most honourable men I have ever met. Whether he is working at the provincial or national level and whether it is for a professional or personal cause, Premier McKenna is an excellent role model for political leaders across Canada and, indeed, for all Canadians. I am sure all of the Members join me in recognizing the outstanding service Premier McKenna has provided his province and his country and wish him and his family continued happiness and success. Mahsi cho.

--Applause