House Chairperson, hon members, on behalf of the ACDP, I wish to convey our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the late Michael Coetzee, especially to his beloved wife, Bridgette, his son, Matthew, and his mother.
In support of today's Order on the Order Paper, I also want to pay my respects to and honour an extraordinary man, a man who earned the admiration and respect of members of all political parties, parliamentary staff, his colleagues, and all who knew him. Our former, late Secretary to Parliament, Michael Coetzee, undoubtedly left behind a memorable and enviable legacy.
A motion that was moved by the Chief Whip of the Majority Party regarding the appointment of Mr Coetzee to serve as Secretary to Parliament in October 2012 is testament to this legacy. His appointment was unanimously approved by the National Assembly and the NCOP after his exemplary leadership as Deputy Secretary for 12 years. It was easy for members to reach this unanimous decision, because members of both Houses had come to know his work ethic, passion, competence, diligence and commitment to the efficient running of the institution of Parliament.
Michael Coetzee accepted the appointment to serve as Secretary to Parliament even though he was already ill, because he wanted to finish the good work he had started in the transition process from the Fourth to the Fifth Parliament. Even though concerns about his health were raised by his family, who would have preferred him to retire and spend more time at home, recuperating, he continued to work regardless.
His commitment, passion and diligence were unwavering. He successfully led his team to put in place the necessary administrative mechanisms and instruments for the functioning of the new term of Parliament. The ACDP will always remember Michael Coetzee for his humility, friendliness, approachability, discipline and professionalism.
To his wife, his son and all family members, we want to thank you for giving Michael Coetzee to Parliament, and also for giving him the space he needed to contribute towards building and entrenching democratic values in our Parliament. May the Lord bless you all, comfort you, and heal your broken hearts in this time of tremendous loss. I thank you. [Applause.]