Speaker, it’s good to see you and good to see all of my colleagues in the House today.

It’s my pleasure to rise in the House today to speak about an exciting development in my riding of Brantford–Brant. As you all know, Brantford is no stranger to hockey, being the birthplace of the Great One, Wayne Gretzky. We have a deep and successful tradition with the sport.

It was recently announced that the Hamilton Bulldogs will be relocating to Brantford for a minimum of three years as their home arena undergoes major renovations. Rebranded as the Brantford Bulldogs, this OHL team will bring a re-energized level of hockey excitement to the area. Their new home will be the Brantford and District Civic Centre, which will undergo some much-needed upgrades as a result of this venture.

Attending today—I don’t know if they’re all here yet in the gallery, but I am grateful to Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis, as well as councillors Rose Sicoli, Richard Carpenter, Mandy Samwell, Gino Caputo, John Sless, Greg Martin, Dan McCreary and key staff; also, members of the senior leadership team of the Bulldogs organization, Jeff Elia and Peggy Chapman. Without unanimous council approval we would not be here today. Thank you to you all.

As the Brantford Bulldogs take the ice for the 2023-24 season, I am confident the residents of Brantford–Brant will welcome them with enthusiasm and support, as we have seen the unprecedented interest in season’s ticket sales and reservations. Go, Brantford Bulldogs!