Hon. John M. McNair, of Grand-Bouctouche, New Brunswick, introduced between Hon. Marc Gold, P.C., and Hon. Pierrette Ringuette.

[Translation]

Hon. Rebecca Patterson: On behalf of my colleagues from the Canadian Senators Group, I want to welcome Senators Aucoin, McNair, Ross and Kingston.

[English]

With these appointments made by the Prime Minister on October 31, the Maritimes representation in the Senate is almost at full strength, but we’re still waiting for one more from Prince Edward Island.

It has been noted by many — in this chamber and outside — that this grouping of appointments will deepen the Senate’s pool of knowledge and strength. We’ve added very strong individuals with political experience and community service, and this really is a good thing. It’s also important to note that each of the new senators are very strong advocates for their provinces, and I certainly hope that your passion for your regions will continue in this place.

The original architects of the Senate designed this chamber to provide a regional lens to national policies and to ensure that all Canadians are represented. This role was important in 1867, and it’s still important in 2023.

Honourable senators, our former colleague Senator Elaine McCoy once wrote that, “The Senate is a built-in safety valve . . . ” in Parliament to protect regional interests while keeping the country together.

In addition to her thoughts, I would state that the Senate is not only in place to ensure there is regional representation, but it’s also a place for sober second thought and civil discourse on issues that really matter to Canadians. That is the challenge you accepted by being here, and I am absolutely certain that you are more than up to it.

[Translation]

We hope you will all continue to act as representatives of your regions within our federation. We are welcoming to our Senate ranks two new legal experts.

Senator Aucoin, it is a pleasure to welcome in this chamber another Acadian senator who is a strong advocate for the French language.

[English]

Senator McNair, your longstanding dedication to public service is admirable, and I suspect that we might soon need to expand the size of the Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee because of all this new incoming expertise.

We also add Senator Ross, a strong community advocate and an accomplished entrepreneur in New Brunswick.

Finally, we welcome Senator Kingston. Personally, I am very pleased to be joined by another nursing professional in this chamber, certainly at a time when health care is in crisis in this country. Your expertise and voice are very welcome.

To each of our new senators, welcome to the Senate of Canada. My colleagues and I look forward to working with you. Thank you.

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of Sharon Lang, Senator McNair’s spouse. She is accompanied by other family members of Senator McNair.

On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.