Hon. Scott Tannas: Honourable senators, on behalf of my colleagues in the Canadian Senators Group, I welcome Senator Iris Petten to the Senate. Senator Petten is a resident of Port de Grave, Newfoundland and Labrador. She is a highly successful entrepreneur and a senior executive with over 35 years of experience in the fishing industry.

This announcement of your nomination was a particular delight for us, especially for Senator Black from our group, who up to now has been the only, lonely expert in food production in the Senate. The Senate desperately needs many strong voices from the food industry and especially those who know where food comes from. We will, no doubt, benefit greatly from your expertise as we review legislation and public policy.

Senator, you probably know this, but you are the third Petten to serve in the Senate. The first Petten was named to the Senate in 1949 with Newfoundland and Labrador joining Confederation. Then, interestingly, his son served as a senator until 1998.

I’m not sure if these are your family members, but we’re interested in finding out, and I look forward to hearing more about that. For close to half of the 20th century, a Petten has sat in this place. Now, as our 21st-century Senator Petten, this place seems a little more complete with your arrival.

Senator Petten, welcome to the Senate. My colleagues and I look forward to working with you.