Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Some of my constituents have contributed their talents and time to our territory over many years. Many of these residents have been awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal. They include politicians, policemen, firefighters and respected elders, and I would like to recognize them today.
Firstly, my predecessor, Mr. Jim Antoine. He is a former MLA, Premier, Minister and a four time chief of the Liidlii Kue First Nation. I’m pleased to see him in the gallery here today.
Fort Simpson RCMP Sergeant Rob Gallant helped promote peace in volatile parts of the world and works with youth, particularly through the cadet program.
Mr. Bert Tsetso served with the RCMP for 20 years and was a bylaw officer in Fort Simpson for 14 years.
Auxiliary constable Mr. Lee Cazon was honoured for more than a decade of volunteer work with the RCMP in Fort Simpson.
Fort Simpson deputy fire chief Pat Rowe and former fire chief. He has been a firefighter since 1983.
Mary Louise Norwegian, my auntie, helped people in need while raising eight children on her own. She worked as a community health representative for many, many years and a volunteer mortician.
Well-known Wrigley elder and former chief Gabe Hardisty. He was one of the founding members of the then NWT Indian Brotherhood. He is a traditional man who is always willing to lend a hand.
Elder Sara Hardisty of Jean Marie River spent most of her 85 years on the land. She has played a vital role in providing guidance to the local and regional leadership as well as preserving our Dene culture.
For the past 30 years, Ms. Irene McLeod of Fort Liard opened her home to people in need, providing foster care and helping elders by visiting them and bringing them food.
Ms. Laura Vital of Nahanni Butte spent 35 years as a teacher and curriculum developer for the South Slavey language.
Trout Lake elders Mr. Joe Punch and Mr. Edward Jumbo spoke to the Berger Inquiry 35 years ago. Today they teach our young people history, culture and traditional skills.
I offer my congratulations and a big mahsi cho to all the Diamond Jubilee Medal recipients from Nahendeh and any other recipients from other parts that I may have missed. A big pat on the back to them all. Mahsi cho.
Thank you, Mr. Menicoche. The Member for Mackenzie Delta, Mr. Blake.
