 Merry Christmas, Canada! Tis the season to bundle up against the cold and reach out to loved ones near and far. For Christians around the world, it's a time to celebrate Jesus Christ and His message of compassion, and it's a chance to come together and give thanks for everything that unites us. Most of all, it's a time to appreciate the blessings of the season and look to the year ahead with optimism and hope. In 2017, people across Canada gave us a lot to be proud of and showed us the strength in our diversity. Canadians are our neighbour's helping neighbours, sharing warmth, compassion and generosity, not just at Christmas, but all year round. As the 150th anniversary of Confederation draws to a close and we turn to the new year, we all have a role to play in shaping our world for the better. So this season and on into the new year, let's commit to making a difference. Whether it's lending a hand to a neighbour or volunteering for a cause we believe in, let's give generously and live out the values that bring us together. Let's also reach out and listen to those next door, across the aisle and at the dinner table. Building a better world starts with where we work and live in our communities and at home. During the holiday season, I also ask that you take a moment to remember our brave service women and men and their families. They make extraordinary sacrifices to keep us safe. This year, our government made important progress for families throughout Canada from strengthening the Canada Child Benefit and investing in early learning and childcare to advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples working for gender equality and lowering the small business tax rate so entrepreneurs can invest back in their communities and create good jobs for the middle class and those working hard to join it. We still have a lot of hard work left to do, but I'm proud of all we've accomplished together. Each day, I'm grateful and honoured to serve Canadians and I can't wait to continue working side by side with you. From our family to yours, Adrien, Ella Grace, Xavier, Sophie and I wish you joy, health, love and peace this holiday season and beyond. Merry Christmas.