Thank you.
First of all, I have to say that I have the highest respect for our colleague from the Senate, former Senator Bovey. I've known her, and of her, for decades, having been involved in the arts community myself. I followed this bill through its progression through the House a couple of times, and then was actually able to pick it up. Mr. Shields was the original sponsor for the House and he kindly allowed to have it passed to me to finish off.
Mr. Shields, I thank you for that.
It was very personal—being able to work with Senator Bovey on this, and knowing that my colleague from the 42nd Parliament, whom I highly respect, also had an interest in this. It would seem to be a very good fit.
During my time out from this place from 2019 to 2021, I worked as the cultural services manager for the Township of Langley and was able to work very closely with the arts community. Again, we were in COVID, and I was able to see how important the arts are to society.
In order to pick this bill up for its fourth attempt to come through the House, I'm determined to work with members and get this done. I think it's a very good bill. I thank the senator and her predecessor Senator Moore for having originated this idea and concept.