Rangitata MP James Meager was looking forward to kicking off the action in Parliament yesterday.
Mr Meager had been asked to lead off the Address in Reply debate and give the first maiden speech of the 54th Parliament.
He said the Address in Reply was the first opportunity for new members to speak in Parliament, and it was an enormous privilege to be asked by the Prime Minister to be first up for the coalition government.
‘‘It is extra special for me to follow in the footsteps of my former boss, good friend and mentor Chris Bishop, who also gave the first maiden speech when he entered Parliament in 2014.’’
Mr Meager said he would be joined by his closest friends and family in the gallery along with many supporters and volunteers from Mid and South Canterbury, who were the backbone of his campaign.
‘‘I am truly grateful for their support. Without all of them I would not be here in Parliament.’’
