Deputy Speaker and hon members, since this Parliament was sworn in, time has flown by. Despite a truncated year, we have managed to attend to the most urgent business before the House. During this short time, we have welcomed numerous new members to the House, including myself. We have seen the inauguration of a new President and several new Ministers. We have bid farewell to the Chief Justice and welcomed a new incumbent. Unfortunately, membership of this institution doesn't make us immune to the demands of old age or the whims of misfortune, and so we have also lost colleagues to mortality.
At a time such as this, it is prudent to thank one another, because, even in our differences, we are participants in the science of democracy. Whilst we are expressing gratitude, we need to thank the parliamentary and party officials who work behind the scenes to ensure that this institution functions as it should.
At this time of year, we are in the midst of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign, which we should all promote, as we return to our constituencies. The school holidays and the festive season are nearly upon us. We hope that every member and all staff will spend this time relaxing with friends and family, in order to recuperate for the year that lies ahead. It is also a time when we need to be vigilant about travelling on the roads of our country. Every year the festive season is marred by the deaths of thousands, due to road accidents. In conclusion, to our Christian colleagues and supporters, we wish a blessed Christmas. May your faith be renewed in celebration of the birth of Christ. To all our non-Christian colleagues and supporters, we wish the gift of peace, and to our Speaker, a merry Christmas and a happy New Year. Thank you. [Applause.]