Mr. Speaker, I too would like to rise in the House today to congratulate the new leader of the New Democratic Party, Jack Layton.
Success of his leadership campaign was certainly evident in the commanding first ballot victory on Saturday in Toronto. A native of Hudson, Quebec, Mr. Layton has certainly become a political force in Toronto municipal politics since his first election to city council in 1982. On behalf of all Liberal members, I would like to welcome Jack Layton to the national political stage and hope to see him in the House very soon.
I would also like to offer congratulations to the other candidates, the members for Winnipeg--Transcona, Regina--Qu'Appelle and Windsor--St. Clair, as well as Pierre Ducasse and Bev Meslo. I am sure we will enjoy debating with all over the years to come.