Debates of February 10, 2005 (day 33)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this afternoon I received some very exciting and welcome news, which is that the Tlicho Land Claims and Self-Government Act has been given third reading by the Senate of Canada.

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Mr. Speaker, it is hard to express in words how important this day is to the Tlicho people. It is truly an historic moment, not only for the Tlicho but for all the Northwest Territories and Canada. I am sure that years from now, people will be telling their children and their grandchildren where they were when they heard this exciting news.

I am very happy that many Tlicho people -- around 70, I believe -- were there to witness this event. Just a few minutes ago I was speaking to someone in our Treaty 11 office, where everyone is celebrating and have been speaking with people in Ottawa. Right after third reading, Mr. Speaker, there was a tea dance right on Parliament Hill.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend my congratulations to all the Tlicho people and especially to our negotiating team who have worked hard on behalf of all of us for many, many years to see this day. To all our people who were able to travel to Ottawa for this historic and happy occasion, I wish you a safe journey back home to your families and I look forward to celebrating with you in the days and weeks to come. Mahsi.

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