Thank you, hon Chairperson. It's kind of strange to be standing here and saying goodbye when I've just barely said hello! But I want to thank the whip of my province, the Chief Whip and all the members that have made me feel very welcome and at home. I appreciate it.
I've found this House to be very different from the National Assembly and from other political scenarios that I've been in and I think it's a testimony to the character of the people that are in the NCOP and I look forward to next year when we can debate rigorously around issues and not individuals, as is much the case in politics nowadays.
The festive season is a time of reflection and introspection as much as it is a time of celebration and joy. I pray for each of you that God will help you to find your faith where you may have lost it or grown cold, and that God will help you to translate your faith into your work so that that which is your morality will be translated into your responsibility here in the House. I pray for next year, that God would speak to you about that during the festive season. May the Lord bless you and keep you and protect you during this period of time. Thank you. [Applause.]