Mr. Speaker, I would first like to offer my congratulations to you. I know you have long dreamt of this. It proves that tenacity has its rewards. We will take note.
I would like as well to congratulate those who put their name forward for this position today. I think it is one of the important jobs of the House, permitting debate even when we do not share—especially when we do not share—the same ideas. As the English say: “To agree on how to disagree”.
I have no doubt that you will direct our proceedings with an eye on both sides of the House. I am announcing my intention to ask the National Film Board to begin preparations now for the sequel to The Custodian of the Hill .