Debates of August 21, 2007 (day 14)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Right Honourable Prime Minister Stephen Harper visited Nunavut to announce the deepwater port. During his visit to Nunavut, he made two announcements for a deepwater port in Nanisivik, Nunavut, and the military training base in Resolute Bay, Nunavut.

Mr. Speaker, it is encouraging to see the federal government is concerned about the Northwest Passage and Canada’s claim for the Far North. It appears that the fellow government will move forward with a deepwater port and military training centre because of this announcement. However, Mr. Speaker, it is unfortunate the Prime Minister did not consider establishing a deepwater port for military training as well in the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Speaker, a logical location by the deepwater port for a military training facility would be Tuktoyaktuk, as Tuktoyaktuk already serves as a major transportation centre for the Canadian Coast Guard and NTCL operations. With regard to a military training facility, Tuktoyaktuk would also be an appropriate location because we have the facilities available to accommodate over 200 personnel at two camps located at Tuktoyaktuk.

Mr. Speaker, although the announcements made by the Prime Minister establishes a deepwater port and military training facility in Nunavut, I would like this government to lobby, on behalf of the Beaufort and the Northwest Territories, to request the federal government to reconsider establishing a deepwater port for military training facility in Tuktoyaktuk or Sachs Harbour, Northwest Territories. First, by establishing a deepwater port or a military training facility, it will bring economic and business opportunities to the Beaufort-Delta.

In closing, this will enable the Beaufort-Delta residents not to rely on the oil and gas activities presently taking place. This will bring much needed long-term employment and business to the region. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause