Mr. Speaker, as I prepare to leave this place after more than a decade of serving the people of Elgin—Middlesex—London, all I can say is what a ride.
I thank the voters of Elgin—Middlesex—London who kept sending me back to this place, and for their trust and kind words over the years.
I thank my wife Geri and my children, Adam, Kate and Neil, for helping me be strong and for sharing me with so many others.
The shining dedication of my team, Karen, JoAnna, Kimberly, Cathy, Kaylie and Jena, and many more before them, has made me look brighter.
I thank the friends I have accumulated in this place from all parties and all parts of Canada for the many memories that will last me a lifetime.
At what became my other home here, the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs, I will miss Marie-France Renaud, Andre and all of the members, and the egg salad sandwiches of course.
When my grandson Elliot asks Bubba about Parliament, I will tell him that I am happy I had this great opportunity. I made no enemies and I will truly miss my friends.