Hon Speaker, if we look back over the past year we actually can think back to many very interesting debates and discussions, although some of the media people would say most of them were very boring. But, at least, we knew what we were discussing in this House. We had highs and lows here. Sometimes things worked, and sometimes they did not. Members will recall what a very distressed member of the DA said when his microphone did not come on and he wanted to attract the attention of the Speaker. Some parties had less infighting than others, but those who pretend to live in eternal bliss and harmony with each other could be accused of misleading Parliament. It's only those one-member parties that can truthfully say that they have no differences in their caucuses.
When we came here some 18 months ago, many of us did not know each other. However, we soon found common ground, and I believe we developed respect across party-political lines, mostly because we share a common love of our country and the people of our country. Previous speakers have referred to the World Cup spirit that prevailed and that we should really rekindle it again when we go forward as South Africans.
Despite having had differences on some fundamentals here in the House, as well as in committees, and although tempers often flared up, we have not as yet seen a rematch of the famous bout of fisticuffs of some years ago. I think hon De Lange has calmed down somewhat. I don't know if his relationship and marriage to hon Chohan had anything to do with that. He's really calmed down a lot.
The past year also saw a new precedent, with an hon member being accused of coming to the House in his pyjamas. Fancy dressing appears to be the surest way to be seen and not to be heard. Maybe some of us should also do that in future.
Cope saw the first member in the history of our party and Parliament to be escorted out of the House by the Serjeant-at-Arms. He will also go down in history as the only one who was escorted by Mr Cleinwerck. We saw with pride our party leader, president Lekota, coming into Parliament, and we are very thankful to have him in our ranks. [Applause.]
From all of us in Cope we want to thank you, the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, the presiding officers, the Serjeant-at-Arms, the NA Table staff, the Secretary and everybody who worked tirelessly during the course of the past year to support us as Members of Parliament.
To our colleagues in the majority party, please bear with us. It is our role as nongoverning parties to keep the executive accountable, to keep the ruling party on their toes, and to make sure that those Ministers who go overseas return soon to the House to answer questions, as we saw yesterday.
To all hon members, on behalf of Cope, may we express our best wishes to enjoy the festive season with your families and friends before the hard work for the 2011 local government elections commences. We wish you all the best. Enjoy your rest period, and may we soon meet each other again to continue to work for the nation that expects all of us to deliver on our promises. Thank you. [Applause.]