It is my privilege and pleasure to extend greetings on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Queen of Canada, as we celebrate this special time of year.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank our men and women in uniform. I am deeply grateful to our police officers, firefighters, paramedics, corrections officers and border security for serving in these important roles and for ensuring our safety and security. I would also like to thank our military, both regular force and reservists, who sacrifice to serve our nation at home and abroad. We are indebted to everyone who serves our country, and to their supportive families.
As I travelled across our great province this year, I was reminded, yet again, of the extraordinary contributions of Saskatchewan volunteers. You are the generous, the compassionate, and the committed individuals who coach sports, lead choirs, serve on boards and committees and accomplish so very much in our communities. Indeed, you are the lifeblood of our province, and I thank you all for donating your time to charitable endeavours.
I would also like to acknowledge those who serve in public office. Our school board trustees, mayors, reeves, chiefs, councillors, members of the legislative assembly, members of parliament and senators, invest an enormous amount of time and energy to provide leadership.
These are challenging positions and I thank you most sincerely for your willingness to serve.
In Saskatchewan, we are fortunate to have a very diverse population and our citizens celebrate many different faiths. I draw strength from the Christian message. At this time of year, in particular, I find great hope in the Christmas story.
“For unto us a child is born, a Son is given, and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
I wish you and your family a wonderful holiday season, filled with peace and hope.
Merry Christmas.
