Madam Deputy Speaker, we have concluded another year that has driven us even closer to the true democracy that we so crave. It has been a challenging, eventful, fruitful and promising 2006. We look forward to 2007 and to being as effective and determined in turning our wheels of democracy to transform the nation and deliver to the people.
I take this opportunity on behalf of the MF to thank Madam Speaker, the Deputy Speaker and all the House Chairpersons for an auspicious 2006. Our gratitude and applause are extended to the entire House, the NA Table, all parliamentary staff, security and support staff for their fabulous contribution making our ends worthwhile, attainable and successful.
This year we have laid many of our dear members to rest and I once again offer our prayers and condolences to all the bereaved families and loved ones of the deceased.
I once again take this opportunity to thank Mr Hahndiek for his great contribution to the House and wish him well on his retirement. We also welcome Mr Mansura to the House as our new Secretary to the National Assembly, and we look forward to steering our ship in the new year with him.
We wish all a merry Christmas, an Eid Mubarak to our Muslim community and a prosperous New Year. May the season be restful and celebrated wisely and safely in the company of friends and loved ones. We wish all our matrics the best of success and a bright road ahead with great ambitions.
May we return to this podium in 2007 with determination and enthusiasm for the challenges and mission that will await us. May we return to our constituencies carrying our progress for 2006 and return in 2007 with desires, needs and wants so that this democracy may be a true representation of the people.
To all our political parties: Dear colleagues, go out there and remember to give to those who don't have, and make a difference to the have-nots this festive season. To the hon Mike Ellis I want to say thank you very much for your thoughts and I bless you. [Applause.]