Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it has been four years since I was first elected and not many, if anyone, can say they served with their son in any government legislature in Canada, and I am proud that happened here in this 19th Legislative Assembly. Together, I would hope that myself and my son R.J. were able to provide respectful, unbiased, fair, and timely representation to all our constituents in Hay River, something they all expect and deserve.
Mr. Speaker, over the last few years I have asked myself, did these last four years change who I am as a person? I believe it has not, and I am grateful for that.
Throughout my life and career, while encouraging my children and others to do the same, which is to show respect for all people, be available to hear their stories, and providing help to those who need a helping hand. I hope that those principles had a positive influence on those we represent.
Mr. Speaker, as a political representative, it is never about you. It is about the people one serves. I would recommend to all who are elected in the next Legislative Assembly, before you walk through the doors of this building it is important that you check your ego in at the door and pick up some respect, compassion, understanding, commitment, and be prepared to challenge the system when it is wrong and support it when it is just.
Mr. Speaker, I recognize that when I stand here on the floor of this House, or when I go down the hall to talk about a Minister about constituent issues, I know I have a strong and committed team behind me, and that team is made up those constituents of Hay River. And I thank each of them for having placed their confidence and trust in me to represent them over these past four years, most of which has been very trying times.
Mr. Speaker, it is important that one represents all of their constituents equally based on government policy, legislation, and laws to get to what is right and just. To accomplish that, it requires all the skills, experience, education, and outside networks one has. If you find that any of the policies or legislation has been unfair, unbiased, or just do not make sense, it is up to you to work towards making change. You will find the system to be cumbersome and untimely but that should not stop you as there are experienced and dedicated researchers and staff to assist you and you can make a difference. Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
Unanimous consent granted thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my constituent assistant Leanne Campbell for the work that she has done for all constituents over the past four years and for answering their calls 24/7 throughout these four years.
And most importantly, Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my wife Bette and our family for supporting me during these last four years, including all the highs and lows that came with it. And again, thank you, Hay River.
Thank you, Member for Hay River South. Members' statements. Member for Great Slave.
