A period for building bridges and mending fences in the Western Cape.(News)

BYLINE: Lynne Brown

It is an incredibly huge honour placed on my shoulders to address you here as the sixth premier to serve this province in the democratic era.

I realise that I am fortunate in comparison to my predecessors, to take over the reins of the provincial government in good working order.

It is a government that has, to a great extent, prioritised the delivery of a better life for those who need it most, without neglecting anyone else. Many of us in this chamber, whether we come from the ANC, Democratic Alliance, Independent Democrats, United Independent Front or any other political party - and whether we feel comfortable admitting it or not - will acknowledge having learned much from Comrade Ebrahim Rasool.

These are not inconsiderable shoes to fill.

To lead this …