Debates of June 7, 2006 (day 7)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I had an opportunity to meet and talk with the mayor of Ulukhaktok on April 2, 2006. One item of interest for the residents of Ulukhaktok is the print making and tapestry shop that’s been closed for a number of years. Mr. Speaker, the residents of Ulukhaktok are well renowned for their print making and artistic talent. To name one offhand is Mary Okheena. These artists have sold their print making and tapestries around the world. Mr. Speaker, in my discussion with the mayor, Ulukhaktok residents would like to revitalize their artistic talent in print making and tapestries and would like to see the print making and tapestry shop reopen. However, Mr. Speaker, government funding is required to renovate the facility.

Mr. Speaker, government jobs, sports and traditional hunting activities today is the only source of income for a lot of the residents. Today, residents of Ulukhaktok would like to achieve another economic base and source of income. By renovating the print making and tapestry shop in Ulukhaktok, it would enable the residents of Ulukhaktok to achieve anther economic base and source of income and prove once again they are well renowned artists.

Mr. Speaker, I will be addressing the issue with the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment today and over the next few months to once again reopen the print making and tapestry shop. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause