CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM THE LEADER OF THE OFFICIAL OPPOSITION

Hello, I'm Dwain Lingenfelter, Leader of the Opposition.

I grew up on the family farm near Shaunavon as one of nine children.

Like many of you, I have happy recollections of Christmas from those days, treasured memories like skating on the slough with my brothers and sisters.

I also remember, though, that sometimes we had to make do without many things that other families seemed to take for granted.

But my parents always told us that we should focus not on what we lacked, but on what we had, and on what we could do for others.

Today, I am blessed in many ways, but most importantly, with a loving wife and five children of whom I could not be more proud.

And my wife Rubiela and I teach our children the same lessons my parents taught me - to take responsibility for making their community a better place than when they found it.

At Christmas, we remind our children that, in the midst of our own celebrations, there are many in our province having trouble making ends meet:

• Seniors trying to juggle the rising cost of rent, utilities and prescription drugs;
• Farmers who worry about whether they can pay their bills and still afford Christmas presents for their kids when they haven't been paid for their grain; and
• People who have lost full-time jobs and are trying to pay their bills with part-time hours or no paycheque at all.

We remind them, too, of people in need all over the world-the refugees from war or famine or persecution.

And, as a family, we commit ourselves once again to taking our part in the world's struggles, to restoring hope to those who have none, and to keeping the true spirit of this holiday season alive throughout the year.

That's the spirit of caring and sharing that is the true spirit of Saskatchewan, the spirit that built the province we know and love, and the spirit that will inspire us all in years to come.

And so, in that spirit, on behalf of my wife Rubiela, our family, and my colleagues in the New Democratic Party Official Opposition, my best to you and your family. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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