Deputy Speaker, mid-May 2009 was a time of uncertainties as we were coming to the national Parliament for the first time; not knowing where to stay, whom we would meet, and with whom we would work. But one found a family of friendly, reliable and kind-hearted colleagues in this House. [Applause.] Thank you for the warmth of togetherness.
I would like to thank the hon President for his transparent, consultative, fatherly, effective leadership, and enthusiasm about people. [Applause.] Indeed, the hon President is the people's President, he must keep up the good work. [Applause.]
To the hon Deputy President, I would like to say thanks for the listening ear you always had for us, and also for the unison you have shown in working co-operatively with the hon President. Unity is power. Another word of thanks goes to the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker and the House Chairpersons for the even-handedness with which they direct the proceedings of the House. Our robust engagements with one another sometimes put them in a difficult situation to handle.
We in the Chief Whips Forum heaved and puffed for a great chunk of the year with hon Motshekga, the Chief Whip of the Majority Party. I want to thank him very much for the good work he has done in the interest of all parties, and above all in the interest of South Africa.
Let me thank the administration of Parliament, the Secretary to the National Assembly and the entire staff who always assist, update and remind us about our business in the House. We thank the affable service officers for the delivery of documents and the upkeep of our offices.
To the hon Ministers, the leaders of political parties, Chairpersons of all portfolio committees and standing committees, especially hon Godi the Chairperson of Scopa, and the committee members, my colleagues; I say "Aluta Continua"! [The struggle continues!] Let the good work continue for future generations of our country. [Applause.]
May God be with you 'till we meet again. When life's perils thick confound you, may He put His arms unfailing round you. God be with you 'till we meet again. Thank you. [Applause.]