Bob McLeod

We bring these concerns to the attention of the various federal department contacts. Also, where we've been working with different federal departments, we try to work with them so that we can get them to address some of the specific complaints. For example, the CRA, they have an NWT office here in Yellowknife, so it makes it a lot easier for us to contact them and tell them what the specific problems are. Certainly, we get much faster service now where we can just go down the street to talk to them instead of trying to contact somebody in Winnipeg by telephone.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Our GSOs are there to provide services to community members who need it, in whatever capacity, if they are having problems connecting with federal programs. Generally, our GSOs are aware of it, and they try to take steps so that we can improve the connectivity. As well, we all know how difficult it is to access federal programs. If you want to talk to somebody at the CRA, you've got to phone, wait on the line for 10, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, and then it will cut you off automatically because that's the way their programs are designed. It is very difficult to get through...

Mr. Speaker, the 18th Legislative Assembly has made it a priority to strengthen relationships with Northwest Territories Indigenous governments. We have focused on fostering government-to-government relationships and advancing, finalizing, and implementing land, resource, and self-government agreements. Together we have charted a vision for the economic future of the Northwest Territories, and we have come together to make the case for greater investment and decision-making in our territory.

Our government understands that strong relationships are built on the principles of respect, recognition...

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am very pleased to recognize a constituent of Yellowknife South, Caroline Wawzonek. Caroline has indicated that she will be a candidate in the upcoming election in the riding of Yellowknife South. I wish her every success. Thank you.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise Members that the honourable Robert C. McLeod will be late arriving in the House today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to recognize a resident of Yellowknife South, Gaeleen MacPherson. Gaeleen just announced that she will be a candidate in the Yellowknife South riding. I wish her every success, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wish to table to following document entitled "Toward a Plan – Strengthening Canada's Position in the Arctic." Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, I am seeking unanimous consent to go back to item 6, recognition of visitors in the gallery, please.

Mr. Speaker, international interest in the North has been increasing steadily over the past few years. As the effects of climate change increase access to the Arctic, the global geopolitical context for the region is changing.

With enormous untapped opportunities for shipping, research, and resource development, many countries are looking to influence the development of policies and international agreements that will benefit them and their interests in the region. Global powers like China, Russia, and the United States are deliberately ramping up their presence and level of activity within...

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, Members. I am pleased to recognize my wife, Melody, of 45 years; my grandson Carter McLeod, who has to leave tomorrow to go to Moose Jaw to play some hockey; and my youngest grandson, Cooper McLeod, who is here to watch the proceedings and learn about some politics. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.