When travelling long distances, it's necessary to turn around to see how far we've come. With this in mind, let's look at what's changed in our justice system since government issued a green paper a year ago on the challenges facing B.C.'s justice system - challenges that many other jurisdictions are struggling with as well.

Our government continues to place a high priority on improving services for seniors. We have followed through on our commitment to establish an Office of the Seniors' Advocate.

Despite the economic challenges governments around the globe are facing today, and the impact the global financial uncertainty has on a trading province like ours, British Columbia's Balanced Budget 2013 reaffirms our government's support for agriculture.

I want to assure everyone in the community living sector that our government is fully committed to improving supports for people with developmental disabilities and their families.

Feb. 18-22, 2013, is Chamber of Commerce Week in B.C. and I am delighted to recognize our province's 120 chambers of commerce for the incredible work they do all year-round.

On Feb. 3, 2012, government released British Columbia's Natural Gas Strategy: Fuelling B.C.'s Economy for the Next Decade and Beyond concurrently with the government's Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Strategy.

Like most major industries, LNG production requires a steady source of energy. The industry needs reliable energy for the manufacturing process, which cools natural gas to minus 160 degrees Celsius, so it can be safely shipped overseas.

On behalf of Premier Christy Clark and the Government of British Columbia, I would like to congratulate the Sunshine Coast Regional District on the completion of the enhancement project at Dakota Ridge Winter Recreation Area.

Last week, our government launched BC Creative Futures.

This government has announced a proposed new framework to bring about 10 years of labour peace with B.C. teachers. We have a great education system in this province, but wherever I travel in B.C. people tell me that it is time we put students first.