Hon. Brian Francis: Honourable senators, it is wonderful to be with you all in this chamber. I am honoured to rise here today as the new leader of the Progressive Senate Group so that I can welcome you all back and join the other leaders in welcoming the first batch of our newest colleagues.

It is certainly an unusual situation, as these senators have waited so long to take their seats among us. I have no doubt that they are as eager as the rest of us to get down to business. Although you’ve all had some time to get used to your new titles, the real work is about to begin as you embark on your Senate learning journey.

These moments of transition are important. We each remember that feeling of entering the chamber for the first time and the responsibility we felt to our communities to bring their voices to the floor. We have an impressive array of new voices joining us over the next few days, starting with the eight who have sworn their oaths this morning.

Francophones and Acadians now have another champion in this chamber through Senator Allister Surette. His multidisciplinary experience, especially in provincial government, will certainly serve him well in his new role as he continues to work for Nova Scotians.

Welcome, Senator Surette.

Senator Baltej Dhillon brings an impressive dedication to public service, and we are grateful he will continue that work here, in the Senate. For decades now, British Columbians have benefited from his leadership and community work, and we look forward to him representing his province in this chamber.

Welcome, Senator Dhillon.

It feels very timely to have gained the expertise of Senator Martine Hébert. Her impressive experience in varied fields, including economic development, international relations and public affairs, is appropriately paired with an ability to explain and balance competing priorities. Quebecers and Canadians alike are eager to see what this new chapter holds.

Welcome, Senator Hébert.

Senator Danièle Henkel brings a wealth of entrepreneurial and leadership experience. Though Quebecers may know her best from her time on their province’s version of “Dragons’ Den,” I have no doubt that they will see a new side of her here. As both an accomplished author and speaker, her contributions to the Senate are certain to be thoughtful and well articulated.

Welcome, Senator Henkel.

The appointment of Senator Tony Ince brings more provincial legislature experience to our chamber. His impressive career of serving Nova Scotians is commendable. His committed advocacy for diversity, social justice and inclusion is evident in how he leads by example, fostering a sense of community.

Welcome, Senator Ince.

Senator Duncan Wilson is a champion of collaboration and inclusion who has demonstrated experience in delivering balanced and innovative solutions to complex problems. His leadership helped earn global recognition for the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, and I am certain he is determined to use his impressive background to its fullest potential as he navigates his new role.

Welcome, Senator Wilson.

Senator Katherine Hay has successfully implemented world-leading system change through innovation in the e-mental health space. The impact her work has had — particularly for women, children and youth — is undeniable, and it is clear she is not done yet. Her devotion to public service is the Senate’s gain.

Welcome, Senator Hay.

Finally, Senator Sandra Pupatello is also joining us at a very appropriate moment, given her background in economic development and trade as well as her work on Reshoring Canada to encourage Canadian supply chain modernization and resiliency. I’m sure she has already noted the differences between the Legislative Assembly of Ontario and the Senate of Canada, but I’m equally certain that she will fit right in.

Welcome, Senator Pupatello.

As others have noted, this is an impressive group of Canadians. Though these are not our usual seats, it is still nice to see you all take your places in this chamber. Your contributions will help shape the ongoing modernization of this institution, and, more importantly, you will help advance public policy as we all work together to best serve the communities we are here to represent.

On behalf of the Progressive Senate Group, it is my pleasure to offer a warm welcome to each of you, and we look forward to working with all of you.

Wela’lin. Thank you.