Mr. Chair, I recognize that we are gathered on the unceded traditional territory of the Anishinabe Algonquin people.

Since time immemorial, indigenous nations have gathered here to exchange ideas, share and work together. That is what Canadians expect of us here in the House of Commons. Today, a similar spirit brings us together. Some of us are here for the first time, while others have been here since 1984.

I was elected Speaker of the House during the second half of a minority Parliament. When I was elected, I promised to be a thoughtful and collaborative Speaker, who was at the service of parliamentarians.

In that Parliament, tempers ran high and co-operation was low. It was in that context that I learned the ropes of the job, often getting it right, and when I did not, putting in place measures to continually improve. To be frank, it would have been a difficult time for anyone in that role.

We find ourselves in a new minority Parliament. A new Parliament is a new beginning, but we do not have to start at the beginning. Although I continue to stand by my values of mutual respect between members, the business of Parliament must get done, with transparency, integrity and accountability and without gamesmanship. This is what Canadians expect from us.

In my first question period, I asked my colleagues to treat me like a new car: try not to get a dent on me on the first day. Well, I got one day. There are now a couple of dents, but I am still running. I am now a reliable car with experience. That is how I learned what all Speakers eventually discover: You do not become Speaker by just putting on the robes; you learn the role through experience.

Robes do not a Speaker make; it comes with experience. I already have that experience under my belt, and I want to put it to work for and to the benefit of the 45th Parliament.

Presiding over the debates of the House is the most visible part of the role. However, the Speaker's diplomatic role is just as important.

More than ever, Canada needs friendships around the world. From the early days of my Speakership, I insisted that Canada show solidarity with Ukraine, and I am proud to have organized an all-party parliamentary mission to Ukraine. During the long train ride into Ukraine under the cover of darkness with the protection of the Canadian Armed Forces, I was seated with my colleagues from the Conservatives, the Bloc, the NDP and the Liberals. Working together, we developed lasting friendships with the Ukrainians and strengthened their network of support in their time of need. This is another example of Parliament at its best.

It is more important than ever that Canada have strong friendships worldwide. I have forged friendships around the world to advance the interests of our Parliament. Among other things, this experience will contribute to the success of the G7 meeting that the Speaker of the House of Commons of Canada will host later this summer.

The Speaker plays another role right here. As CEO of more than 2,500 employees of the House of Commons, I support the services that underpin the rights and privileges of parliamentarians.

Under my speakership, money was well spent. We took steps never taken before. We started a new audit process. We implemented robust new security measures in and around Parliament Hill, in your constituencies, at your offices and at your homes. We did this so you and your family can feel safe while you do your job.

Given this wealth of experience, I am seeking your support for my re-election. I have the experience it takes to start making the necessary changes today.

This car has a few dents, but it also has character. The engine is strong, and I know the road. Let us go together.

Greg Fergus

$480,916.00