This week, I participated in what can be called a parliamentary ?rite of passage?: I delivered my inaugural speech in the Legislature.
As you know from the various video, podcast and blog postings on this website, I had already spoken a number of times in the Legislature prior to my inaugural speech. I have asked questions during Question Period and made statements about a range of subjects of concern to the people of Thornhill and our friends across this great province of ours.
However, the inaugural speech is special. It is the first official opportunity within our Westminster-style parliamentary system for a new member to demonstrate the skills he/she will use to represent the interests and concerns of constituents in the Legislature.
Usually if you tune into the Legislative Assembly Channel (especially during Question Period), you will hear raucous debate and heckling back and forth across the aisle. During an inaugural speech, these partisan interjections are suspended and veteran members listen politely as the ?newbie? speaks. This is in exchange for the expectation that the speech will be non-controversial.
Most new members use the inaugural speech as an opportunity to thank family members and friends for their unyielding support, and an opportunity to speak about their own ridings and the concerns of their constituents. I spoke of the need for timely transportation infrastructure and health care investment in our riding. Like many of you, I see these as issues of immediate concern especially considering the population growth communities across the GTA, such as Thornhill, are expected to experience from now over the next 20 years. We need sound planning now to ensure our communities are able to comfortably accommodate these newcomers.
I also spoke about Thornhill?s Zareinu Educational Centre, and the issues facing special needs children and their families. Children with special needs are no less deserving of the benefits of an education than any other child. They have a right to an education and the McGuinty government is not living up to the duty they owe these kids and their families.
With this ?rite of passage? behind me, I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Progressive Conservative caucus to hold the McGuinty government accountable for their policies. I also look forward to working with you, my constituents, to ensure a bright future for Thornhill and all of Ontario.