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

Firstly, I endorse your remarks and, on behalf of the government, wish all senators, their staff and all employees of the parliament a merry Christmas and a peaceful and restful break over the Christmas-New Year period.

I think we are all cognisant of the fact that it has been a pretty tough year for all those involved in federal politics. Win, lose or draw, it has been a hard, long year and I think everyone is looking forward to a break. I think signs of that tiredness were exhibited today as people maybe got a little on the testy side as the wear and tear of the year hit home. The reality, though, is that generally there is goodwill and positive relationships among senators and staff and people who serve the parliament. We all share a broad objective in the interests of Australia and the proper functioning of its democracy and, as I say, most of the time we enjoy good, positive relationships. It is also the case that we do care for and support each other, and I am sure all Labor senators are very glad to see Senator Ferguson back in ruddy good health after his scare this year, so we are all pleased to see him back. Also, we are very glad to see Senator Minchin’s son come through what was obviously a horrific experience. So I do wish all senators and their staff a merry Christmas. Like the President, I also want to acknowledge all those who serve the Senate. They are too numerous to mention but they include the clerks, the attendants and everyone in the parliament. I was walking through the gardens today actually contemplating what a great job the gardeners do, what a beautiful job they do for what is a great national institution.