Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this Legislative Assembly is that my best and rather exclusive body and I would like to congratulate all of my colleagues who have been sent here by their constituents to represent their interests over the next four years. The last four days have shown me that I believe we're off to a very good start and we have the makings of a very productive Assembly.

I would like, as well, to congratulate, Mr. Speaker, yourself, Premier Handley, Cabinet colleagues and all those who have been put into positions of trust and responsibility as committee Chairs, Caucus Chairs and such.

This is my third opportunity to stand here at the start of a Legislative Assembly and this time I would once again like to thank my constituents. I would like to thank my family, my friends and my loved ones who have stuck by me through many difficult times. I'm here and I committed in my campaign to be a voice for everybody. I commit to do that not only for my constituents, but for all the people of the Northwest Territories.

As we are in the midst of the Yule Tide season and we'll all soon be going back to our homes, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all the people of the Northwest Territories who have assembled here today and across the land, a very happy, safe Christmas and a very prosperous New Year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause