It was a day of tributes, some sadness and a little humor as Brad Wall made his last speech in the assembly.
He says representing the people of Swift Current for the past 18 years has been the best job of his life.
He says he will miss the job and miss the people, but he is also anxious to spend more time with his family, and is ready to be known, as “ just Brad.”
“So if I don’t have to share my name or identity with any official office or title I have more time to give back to my family, and by the say that is not a chore, that will be fun, and I look forward to that,” he said.
The Premier says he is not sure what he will do next, but it won’t be politics. He indicated working on public policy, possibly in the health care field may be of interest to him.
The NDP opposition thanked him for his years of service and for the contributions he has made. Interim leader, Nicole Sarauer says Wall made her a better politician.
“The opportunity to go toe to toe with the Premier in question period has allowed me to grow as an MLA, and I think what you saw today is largely reflective of this building,” she said.
What was seen today, was both sides of the house, putting aside political differences and coming together to honor the contributions of Brad Wall and recognizing that no matter the political philosophy all politicians are striving to make Saskatchewan a better place for its residents.
The Sask party will pick its new leader in January, the NDP will hold its leadership convention in March.
Today was also the final day of the fall sitting, so when the house resumes in the spring, both parties will have new leaders.
(PHOTO: Brad Wall speaks to reporters after his final speech in the legislature. Photo by Manfred Joehnck.)