Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is great to hear that there will be an increase in the ECE funding for the budget address. I have not heard of enhancing aboriginal language or culture programs, but, at the same time, I am also looking forward to seeing this in the budget in detail.

Mr. Speaker, at this time, I would like to highlight as one of the key areas I would like to focus on. Mr. Speaker, ECE has identified language and cultural-based education as their highest priority. The Aboriginal Language and Cultural Instructors Program, called LCIP, I am happy to note, is currently under review with a draft plan in place for 2006.

The plan includes revising the current out-of-date program and extending the original program to a two-year diploma. It is great to see in here, Mr. Speaker. I commend the department for working so swiftly in this direction. This department is linked to the future of aboriginal language instructions in our schools and ultimately, Mr. Speaker, for the effective survival of our language and culture.

There are 11 official languages in the Northwest Territories, Mr. Speaker. Out of these 11, seven aboriginal languages are in the state of emergency. We have begun to put some programs in place, but I feel the need to stress the urgency of the situation. We need to act now with solid, concrete plans to revitalize these languages before it is too late, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, I will have questions for the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment at the appropriate time. Mahsi cho.

---Applause