Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to welcome everybody back and hope you all had an enjoyable few months either back at home working for your constituents doing committee work or as a Minister doing their work here back home.
Today, Mr. Speaker, I stand in the House to recognize my former constituency assistant, Leona Norwegian, known to everyone as Pearl. It is a bittersweet day that I recognize her today. If you know Pearl, you will recognize that she was never one for the spotlight. She was a person behind the scene and did not want the spotlight on her. Well, with her retiring away from political life, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Pearl Norwegian has served as a constituent in the Nahendeh riding for some 20 years. She has worked for the offices of former MLAs Jim Antoine, Kevin Menicoche, and now myself.
Pearl's devotion to the constituents of the Nahendeh riding did not go unnoticed. As the face of the riding, her friendly and open demeanour allowed her to be approachable, trusted by the public. Pearl is truly passionate about her riding and the six communities we represent. In her own way, Pearl was a counsellor, a confidante. She guaranteed advocacy for the less fortunate and ensured that no one’s concerns went unheard.
Mr. Speaker, Pearl’s years of constituent assistance in the Nahendeh riding has allowed her to get to know and care for two generations that have grown up throughout the riding. She was equally caring and kind towards our elders and youth. As an avid promoter of education and business within the riding, she also kept our constituents aware of opportunities and potential that they had.
Mr. Speaker, with her strong traditional ties and knowledge, Pearl had a high willingness to promote the culture and tradition of the Dene people. Her generosity was enormous and, whether it was for a wedding or funeral, no community feast goes without Pearl’s Papa’s fried bread.
Mr. Speaker, I’d like to highlight Pearl’s high commitment to her job. She displayed this commitment on several occasions, such as when she returned as a CA to assist me with the transition and when she took additional responsibilities for other former MLAs. I’d like to thank her for her time again. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.