Hon. Charles S. Adler, of Winnipeg, Manitoba, introduced between Hon. Paula Simons and Hon. Marc Gold, P.C.

The following honourable senator was introduced; presented His Majesty’s writ of summons; took the oath prescribed by law, which was administered by the Clerk of the Senate; and was seated.

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Honourable senators, on behalf of the Government Representative Office, welcome back. It is with great pleasure that I warmly welcome our newest colleagues to the Senate of Canada: Senators Boudreau, Adler, Wells and Fridhandler.

[Translation]

Senator Boudreau, the decades that you spent serving your community and New Brunswick, at both the provincial and municipal levels, are very impressive, and it is quite appropriate that you will be continuing that service here in the Senate. I look forward to the contribution and perspective that you will bring to our many debates in this chamber.

[English]

Senator Adler, it gives me great pleasure to welcome a fellow Montrealer and McGill University alumnus to the Senate. Having worked across the country, you bring a wealth of experience, and your fierce defence of human rights will be a great asset to the Senate.

Senator Wells, I greatly admire your work to advance equality and diversity in Alberta and across this great country. As a champion of the 2SLGBTQI+ community, the Senate will benefit from your expertise and voice in this chamber now more than ever.

Senator Fridhandler, as another alumnus of McGill, I take great satisfaction in welcoming you to the Senate. Your work as a lawyer, arbitrator and especially as a mediator will serve you well in the Senate. Given your extensive experience on numerous boards, ranging from the Alberta Ballet Company to the Calgary Public Library, I have no doubt that you will bring an invaluable perspective to this chamber.

As new senators there will be a very steep learning curve, and the work ahead will not always be easy. However, every one of us in this chamber has been in your place before, and I believe I speak for all of us when I say this: Please, don’t hesitate to reach out for advice and support whenever you need it and from whomever you seek it.

I look forward to working with all of you in the weeks and months ahead. Once again, on behalf of the Government Representative Office, welcome, dear colleagues, to the Senate of Canada.