Mr Speaker, hon members, we have once more reached the end of the year. It has been a particularly busy year with this Parliament getting down to business for its first complete year of work. The year has been particularly busy with new departments and new Ministers commencing their work in earnest. The recent Cabinet reshuffle and consequent parliamentary changes have added a further level of complexity to parliamentary work under way.
Nevertheless, the House has managed to deal with a great deal of business and addressed numerous important matters. We wish our colleagues in other political parties farewell for the year and hope that they will find joy and contentment over the festive season in the company of friends and loved ones.
The UDM would like to wish our Muslim compatriots a prosperous Eid Mubarak for yesterday. Similarly, we hope that those who have recently celebrated Diwali will have a joyous New Year. In a month's time, our Christian compatriots will be celebrating Christmas. It is a reminder of our rich diversity as a nation and also that we share common values that cherish life, family and prosperity. May we return refreshed and inspired to proceed with our work in the New Year.
At this time, the UDM would like to once again appeal to everyone that we should travel safely, especially on our roads. Together, let us spread the message of responsible and safe road usage. The vast majority of our shockingly high number of road fatalities are caused by avoidable reckless or negligent road use.
In conclusion, allow me to express gratitude to the many staff members within the administration of the institution and the political parties who enable us to do our job; we appreciate their efforts. May everybody have a merry Christmas and a happy New Year. I thank you. [Applause.]