Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I too would like to offer my congratulations to you, to Premier-elect, Mr. Kakfwi, and the entire Cabinet. Mr. Speaker, I would like to say Happy New Year to all the people in the Deh Cho and all of the people in the Northwest Territories.

I also have to thank all of the staff for the coaching in the last few days. It was quite an ordeal learning when to talk, when not to talk, when to sit down, when to stand up...

-- Laughter

...so I have to thank the staff for the job they have done. I also have to thank all of the senior Members for their advice and all of the new Members for sticking by me.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my family in Fort Providence. My wife Joyce, my children Kevin, Robyn and Shawna, my parents Angus and Florestine McLeod and all of my brothers and sisters for their support throughout the campaign.

I also want to recognize one person who has worked extremely hard and who has put in an extra effort in supporting me, Susan Christie, who was my campaign manager.

I want to say to the people of the Deh Cho; Fort Providence, Kakisa, Enterprise and Hay River Reserve that I believe I have a clear mandate. The messages I heard over the duration of my campaign will be with me throughout all decisions I will be making.

Mr. Speaker, I also have to extend a sincere thank you to Mr. Sam Gargan, who served as the MLA for the Deh Cho prior to my election for 16 years of service. On behalf of all of the people of the Deh Cho, thank you.

With that, I wish all of the Members good luck, and I look forward to working with you.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

-- Applause