Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

by leave—I thank the Senate for its cooperation. We thought we would extend for 10 minutes to allow for party leaders to thank all senators and staff for their contribution to the efficient running of the Senate this year. As we break for Christmas, I know the parliamentarians are relieved but I am sure the staff are very relieved as well to see the back of us. I just ran into a journalist who said, ‘Would you please go home.’ That was not personally directed at me; it was directed at the whole parliamentary team.

I wish all staff of the Senate and the parliament generally best wishes for Christmas, and I hope they are able to have some time off to spend with their families. I never cease to marvel at the courtesy and service afforded to senators by staff in this building. Despite our behaviour and demands, they always treat people with enormous respect and courtesy and provide service in the best traditions of the Public Service. Obviously we have had a difficult few weeks. I know my colleagues on the other side of the chamber had a very difficult few weeks. Having been there and done that, I do not envy them that time. I am sure they will be very glad to get a break from that. We went through it, though I am not sure whether we went through it with quite the intensity or whether we achieved the spectacular levels seen in the last couple of weeks. But we have been there and we do understand the pain.

As well as thanking staff, I want to particularly mention Senator Wong, who has done a fantastic job for us on a very difficult piece of legislation and economic policy. I know she has to go to Copenhagen, but I wish her a break over the summer period. I also thank Senators Ludwig and O’Brien, who have been responsible for the very difficult job of getting the government’s legislation through and managing this chamber in a minority position. To Senator Minchin, the minor parties and the independents, I wish them all an enjoyable break. I hope they get time to spend with their families. I thank you, Mr President.