Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In the last two weeks, I have raised several issues related to the economic stability of the Northwest Territories, encouraging the Minister of Finance to look at several tax measures that would be a benefit to the investment in our territory. Mr. Speaker, my researchers have found several interesting items that should intrigue the imagination of our government; none more so than an article on economic development in the Edmonton Journal, dated March 25th.

Mr. Speaker, I quote from the article, “Ireland is the poster child for success, going from one of the poorest...

I want to report progress.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight met with the Premier on February 17, 2004, to review the draft 2004-2005 main estimates for the Executive offices.

The Executive offices are proposing a $983,000 decrease in operations expenses from the 2003-2004 main estimates. This is primarily due to a decrease in funding to the maximizing northern employment initiative.

A director of regional operations position was created in 2002 to assist with regional coordination in the Beaufort-Delta to prepare for the implementation of a final self-government agreement.

T...

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to take this opportunity to recognize the efforts and dedication of Ms. Karen Polkoff of Inuvik. Ms. Polkoff is a tireless coach and a tireless volunteer with the Inuvik speed skating group. At a recent meet in Yellowknife, Mr. Speaker, the participants made a great deal of accomplishments which were made in recognition of Ms. Polkoff’s efforts. On behalf of my constituency, the people of Inuvik and the speed skating community, a heartfelt gratitude is extended to her for her tireless efforts. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The committee recommends that we review the Legislative Assembly main estimates.

Thank you, Madam Chair. Madam Chair, the committee recommends that we continue with Bill 1, the review of Public Works and Services, the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs, and the Executive offices to conclusion. Thank you, Madam Chair.

Thank you. I'm raising a question there, Mr. Chairman, under the glossary of the buildings and works. I'm going to ask again, just to repeat for the benefit of the Minister, would the department now consider that since the Blueberry Patch is beyond economical repair, if they would consider engaging under a long-term lease agreement with some private developers who can provide adequate and affordable student housing for the Aurora Campus? Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am pleased to speak to something that has been on people's minds in my riding for many, many years, and I think it's time I have an opportunity to speak to it.

In terms of our value system, there seems to be a conflict between what we call a land-based economy versus a commerce-based economy. Unfortunately, as we, if I may use the word politely, Mr. Chairman, have been marginalized, we tend to deal with on an ongoing basis of those who are on income support. The difficulty seems to lie in the way we manage the transitional change or the stages which we go through....

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I want to thank the Minister because I think he gave an overview of what the level of expectations are along the valley. I think the important point I want to make in my final comments, Mr. Chairman, is that I think we need to take a more proactive role, and talk to not only the unions, but also the private sector, and try to develop a strategic plan that would ensure that we do begin to train the employables on actual pipeline construction sites so they will be prepared from a skill level to participate in the actual project. I believe it is not harmful.

If I may go...

Thank you, Madam Chair. The committee recommends that we review the Department of Education, Culture and Employment, and we review them until the conclusion of that department. Thank you, Madam Chair.