Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise for the very first time in this House to address this special place as the member of Parliament for Cape Breton—Canso.
First, I would like to thank the people of Cape Breton—Canso for putting their trust in me as their voice in Ottawa. I would also like to thank the extremely dedicated group of volunteers who helped me to get here. Of course, I would like to recognize the long-serving member before me, who I know is very familiar to the House, Mr. Rodger Cuzner. I know that not only his poetry and sharp wit, but his collegiality as well, will be missed.
The past six months have been a truly remarkable experience, getting to know so many community members and leaders, knocking on thousands of doors, and making thousands and thousands of calls. I am inspired by the level of dedication and commitment I witnessed at every level within my riding.
I am ready to get to work with our Prime Minister and this government to take serious action on climate change, investing in infrastructure and jobs, implementing a universal pharmacare plan, advancing reconciliation for indigenous people and making life more affordable for Canadians. I am ready and I know everyone here is ready to move this country forward.