Debates of March 10, 2005 (day 53)

Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the honourable Member for Thebacha, that Bill 20, Supplementary Appropriation Act, No. 3, 2004-2005, be read for the third time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Handley. The motion is on the floor. The motion is in order. To the motion.

Question.

Question is being called. All those in favour? All those opposed? The motion is carried.

---Carried

Bill 20 has had third reading. Item 20, third reading of bills.

Colleagues, before we go on, I would like to take this opportunity to let you all know what an honour and a pleasure it has been serving this House as your Speaker during this past session. I have learned a lot and will endeavour to put what I have learned as your presiding officer to good use in our next session.

This budget session has been long, but it has been constructive and beneficial to the people we all serve. The debates have been heated at times, but respectful, and for that I thank all of you. It has certainly made my job easier.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those whose jobs are never easy, beginning with the Sergeant-at-Arms and the Pages who have attended to our needs over the past five weeks…

---Applause

…including the many late nights. Thank you for your tireless efforts, and good luck in all of your work and studies.

Thank you also to the Clerk and his staff who have been of faithful assistance to me and all Members during the last five weeks.

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Thank you, as well, to all the government officials and the employees whose daily labours and commitment contribute so much to the people of the Territories and to the work done in this House.

As we near the end of a seemingly never-ending Third Session of the 15th Assembly, I want to remind Members that in every ending there is a beginning. As we leave this Chamber for the next few weeks, we must be mindful that our work continues and there is much yet to be done. I am sure all Members are looking forward to the second Circle of Northern Leaders meeting to be held next month in Inuvik, as an opportunity to build northern partnerships and shared concerns.

On behalf of the youth of our territory, I would also like to note that the sixth annual Youth Parliament will be held here in this Chamber during the week of May 2nd to the 6th. The participation of all Members is encouraged to assist our young parliamentarians with their duties and their quest for knowledge.

To you all I say best wishes, travel safely, keep to the high road and, until we meet again, may the Creator’s blessings be upon you and yours.