Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am very fortunate to be standing here today, and it is important that I thank the good people from Hay River South for making that happen. It is now up to me to represent each and every one of them fairly in this 19th Legislative Assembly.
Mr. Speaker, prior to and during the election, I would like to acknowledge the support received from my family. That support never wavered since I made the decision to run, and it has not wavered since. The only advice my wife had for me was, "Don't ruin RJ's chance of being elected." She was relieved when he was acclaimed.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my official agent, Jo-Ann Jensen, whose help and hard work is appreciated. With respect to a campaign manager, that position was shared between quite a few people, including Beatrice Lepine, Badgie Courtoreille, Terry Courtoreille, Eileen Gour, Dee-Dee Lepine, Eddie Lepine, John Brockway, Darren Robertson, Rod O'Brien, Danna O'Brien, Abbie Crook, and my family. I thank them for that support.
As well as having all of these people and others volunteer their time, I would be remiss not to mention the 6:30 a.m. coffee crowd at the Ptarmigan Inn, all of whom provided and continue to provide their wisdom to me, which I very much appreciate.
Mr. Speaker, while going door to door, I had Mr. John Brockway as a driver for the 350-plus doors I knocked on. He had me running from house to house, so I lost a few pounds there. It was the door-to-door interaction that I found very enjoyable. I had the opportunity to visit with many old-timers and people that I often wave at in Hay River but never seem to get a chance to talk to. In addition, I met many new residents who provided an inspiring outlook on what Hay River can be.
Mr. Speaker, I do not take the position of Member for Hay River South lightly. Prior to making or voting on any decision during the term of this 19th Legislative Assembly, I will always ask myself, "Is this decision in the best interest on the people I serve?" and will vote accordingly. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
