Statement made on 01 October 2009 by Senator Joan Cook (retired)
Hon. Joan Cook:
Honourable senators, I have a feeling the tide is going to rise before I get through what I am about to say. Those of you from coastal communities will know what I mean when I say that.
Honourable senators, first, let me say thank you to my friends and colleagues for their kind remarks.
Today is a time to remember, and I remember the superb orientation to this place from the leadership of the day, Senator Sharon Carstairs. Sharon, you gave me a solid foundation which allowed me to participate fully in the work of the Senate. I am proud to call you friend. Thank you. And, Sharon, the legacy of the cake will continue.
To Senator Comeau, my first fisheries chair, you integrated me fully into the roles and responsibilities of the Fisheries Committee. Thank you. I must confess that, in the beginning, the use of many acronyms, such as IQs, ITQs and TACs, was a mystery that I could not solve on my own. I finally had to ask the clerk for clarification. On a lighter side, at a committee meeting when we were doing the aquaculture study, Senator Comeau indicated that the committee would be consulting with other jurisdictions such as New Zealand — a place that I have always longed to visit. Well, we did just that — through the miracle of teleconferencing in room 257 East Block, next door to my office, late in the evenings, because of the time change. I will share a secret with honourable senators: Often, Senator Comeau walked me home. A practical and frugal chair, together we produced first-class work.
Senator Cowan, whips are indeed special people. My first seat in this place had just been vacated by my wonderful friend and mentor, the late Honourable William J. Petten, from Newfoundland and Labrador, known as Bill. My friend Monique is also in the gallery today. Senator Petten was whip for many years, as Senator Cowan said.
Your Honour and honourable senators, today marks the end of an incredible journey for me — a journey that began on St. Patrick's Day 1998, when I was sworn in as a member of the Senate of Canada, representing Newfoundland and Labrador. Today I take my leave, having served 11.5 years. Some would say that I had the luck of the Irish. During that time, I have faced challenges that I could have never dreamt of and opportunities that are afforded only to a few people.
Honourable senators, my statement will primarily focus on Senate committees. I believe this is where senators make an invaluable contribution to the fabric of Canadian society, especially to minorities. I will share with you some of my experiences.
First, the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology, under the direction of retired Senator Michael Kirby, tabled two landmark reports that have, in part, been implemented by the government of the day.
First, The Health of Canadians — The Federal Role addressed, among other things, wait times for care. Today, that has been acknowledged and a system is in place.
Second, OUT OF THE SHADOWS AT LAST: Transforming Mental Health, Mental Illness and Addiction Services in Canada. From the first report, it became evident that mental health and mental illness was a priority. Through the persistence and dedication of the committee, this issue was given the legitimacy it deserved. A recommendation that a federal commission be created to contain this work is a reality today. Again, the government heard and acted.
It has also been a privilege to be a member of the Subcommittee on Population Health, chaired by Senator Wilbert Keon, whose mandate was to examine and report on the impact of the multiple factors and conditions that contribute to the health of Canada's population. The report was tabled in the Senate in June 2009, and we eagerly await the government's response. To make sure honourable senators read the report, I will say that of special interest to me is recommendation 10. It is about my province of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Yesterday, under the capable leadership of the current Chair of the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology, Senator Art Eggleton, I received an early birthday gift. Bill C-32, known as the tobacco bill, passed without amendment. Thank you.
Fisheries was my first committee, as I said, chaired by Senator Comeau. The committee has evolved, moving along the continuum of rules, regulations, Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization and a food-based focus to a name change of Fisheries and Oceans. Today, under the leadership of Senator Bill Rompkey, the focus is on Arctic sovereignty and the role of the Canadian Coast Guard. The committee has recently returned from a 10-day visit to the North and Alaska in pursuit of evidence-based knowledge on climate change, sovereignty and security. I feel the Senate has a social responsibility to help enhance the lives of the 29,000 Canadians who call Nunavut their home, where 83 per cent identify themselves as Inuit, as they cope with the issues of climate change and the thawing of the Northwest Passage. The report on this study is due by year end.
My third committee, the Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration, under the chairmanship of Senator George Furey, came later in my tenure — a steep learning curve, to say the least. It was an opportunity to have hands-on involvement and insight into all aspects of this honourable institution. It was in this committee where I honed my skills of listening, perception and practicality. Being a member of this committee was important to me. This forum is where senators and administration achieve consensus on a variety of issues respecting the policies set forth by both entities.
Honourable senators, I have given you but a glimpse of the Senate committees at work. I believe that the strength and vision of this place is clearly evident in the work of its outstanding committees.
Another essential element that I have been a part of is the scrutiny of legislation in this place. Forever will I remember the midnight sittings as contentious legislation was debated and moved along by due process.
Honourable senators, during my time here, I have seen this place adapt. Structural reform may be necessary in some areas as this institution naturally evolves, but I believe the structure of the Senate committees is effective and strong. Through this medium, the Senate is making a difference in the lives of Canadians.
On a personal note, thank you to the staff who ensure that this place runs smoothly. You all know who you are. Just below the radar, the job as mandated is getting done in a first-class manner.
I thank my staff, Julie and Leslie, who have shown the patience of Job and the wisdom of Solomon to keep me on track.
To my colleagues, past and present, I believe I have served with dedication and with single-mindedness of purpose to the best of my ability. I thank you for your support and the opportunity to know you and to work with you.
Honourable senators, my daughters Jean and Diane are in the gallery today.
Eleven years ago, Diane was here with her young boys, Matthew and Joshua. Today, I am proud to say they are fourth-year university students and have grown into fine young men.
Jean came alone that day; however, today she brings John, Luke and Mara, who enrich our lives on a daily basis.
So, guys and gals, Nanny Joan is coming home to enjoy the riches of life with you and all that life will afford us on a daily basis; home to feel the wind on our face and to taste the tang of the salt sea air while waiting for the next challenge that, I know, is just around the corner.
To my colleagues, life is a journey. It has been said: Focus on the journey, not the destination. Joy is found not in finishing an activity but in doing it.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!