Steve Fielding (Victoria, Family First Party) Share this | Hansard source

Family First wants to record its appreciation and best wishes to Senator Paul Calvert as he leaves the Senate. I know that after 20 years in the Senate, Paul and his wife, Jill, will enjoy a well-earned retirement with their daughters, son and grandkids. After so many years travelling between Hobart, Canberra and many other places, I am sure you will appreciate more time with your family. Senator Calvert performed his duties as President professionally and with courtesy. He leaves the office of President with that office held in high regard and that is no mean feat. On every occasion I have approached Senator Calvert for advice he has always been helpful, insightful and fair, and I thank him for that. Given that senators can be an unruly bunch from time to time, he has done a good job in keeping things more or less in order. In fact, in this political system, Senator Calvert has been fair, although I do admit to holding a slight grudge that he has asked me on a couple of occasions to remove a couple of video blogs from my website!

I am not going to comment on the rumour that Senator Calvert is leaving because of the strong showing of Family First and our lead Senate candidate, Jacquie Petrusma in Tasmania. Paul, I have really enjoyed working with you. It has been a pleasure. You have approached things fairly and I really appreciate that every time I came to see you, your office was open and you were more than willing to allow me to share my thoughts and you were able to share your thoughts with me. I have enjoyed the times when we have caught up as well getting to know your wife. I wish you and your wife the very best in retirement.