Mathias Cormann (WA, Liberal Party, Vice-President of the Executive Council) Share this | Hansard source

On behalf of government senators, may I firstly thank Maureen Weeks for her contribution to the Senate over a very, very long time. Many of us have worked closely with her, in opposition and in government, and there is no question that she made an outstanding contribution to the operations of this place—and, indeed, of course, she achieved the high office of Deputy Clerk. True to form, perhaps, she left in a somewhat unusual fashion, without letting any of us know before the end of the year, perhaps from a desire to leave without much fanfare. On behalf of government senators, let me join you, Mr President, in wishing her all the very best for a very happy and satisfying retirement.

May I also join you, Mr President, on behalf of government senators, in congratulating Jackie Morris on her appointment. She obviously comes very highly credentialed and highly experienced into this role, and we look forward to working with her in this new role.