Thank you, Mr. Chair. I would first like to congratulate everyone who was re-elected and welcome all the newly elected members. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank my constituents in Brandon—Souris for their unfailing support.
Brandon—Souris is located in the southwest corner of Manitoba, a province which I call le coeur du Canada, because we are the heart of this body called Canada. Manitoba is also home to Canada's newest NHL hockey team of which we are all very proud.
I am honoured to be considered for the very important role of Speaker of the House.
I have served at the municipal, provincial and federal levels of government in many roles, including deputy reeve, Manitoba minister of industry, trade and tourism and chair of the very productive House committee here, transport, infrastructure and communities.
In over 20 years of public life I have experienced the highs and the lows of forming a government and forming an opposition, which gives me a unique perspective and an understanding of the balance a Speaker must preserve in a progressive chamber.
These insights and experiences on both sides of the House have taught me the benefits of working with all parties in a constructive manner and as your Speaker I will continue to do so.
Colleagues, over the last several years we have experienced a severe decline in decorum in this wonderful chamber. I find it disturbing that members attack each other, not only from a policy perspective, but on a personal level and this behaviour has to stop. Make no mistake, if you elect me as your Speaker, I will do all within my power to correct this decline.
I believe the Speaker of the House has a crucial role to play in preserving decorum in this House.
However, as Speaker, I cannot do this alone. Above all other reasons, my pursuit of this position is to ensure that our Canadian democracy is delivered in a productive and respectful way. I have always treated members with respect and I believe that if asked, those with whom I have served would say the same.
As Speaker, I would commit to all members of this chamber to be accessible to you at all times.
As Speaker, I will serve as every member's Speaker, regardless of their party colours, and I promise to be accessible to each and every one of you.
I have experience from years of public service. I have demonstrated a non-partisan demeanour throughout my career. I would fully commit every hour of my day to this important position. I would work to restore decorum in the House while treating all with respect.
As Speaker, I would also represent members of Parliament throughout Canada and the world with dignity and honour.
Today, we, as members of Parliament, have an opportunity to prove to Canadians that this Parliament of Canada will be one where very much needed decorum and respect are once again the order of the day.
By electing me Speaker, I would provide the confidence and direction to conduct the orders of the House according to the time tested rules. I have been serving Canadians with respect and dignity for the better part of my adult life and I would continue this ethic should my name be the final one chosen today.
I humbly ask for your support and thank you.
I humbly submit my name for your consideration.