Mr. Speaker, do you ever have a moment when you say to yourself, “I cannot believe I am here in this place, sitting in this chair, presiding over the House of Commons in the Government of Canada”?
When I first took my seat as the member of Parliament for Yorkton—Melville, there was rarely a day that went by when I did not marvel at the sight of Centre Block as I was quickly walking up that hill to make it in time for House duty or question period. I shared my rookie amazement with a dear colleague, who said to never lose that sense of awe.
Today, I want to thank what I do not doubt is the best team of staffers on the Hill and in my constituency office. They are also a part of my sense of awe and deep appreciation. This year has been challenging. They have missed loved ones, faced illness, worked from home and been a shoulder of reassurance and hope in the midst of very trying times for constituents who have been isolated, unemployed, or working 24-7 to try to save a business that they have poured their hearts into.
They continually go above and beyond. I want to thank Kristen, Kathleen, Gail, David, Tristan and Wyzdom.