Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to update Members on the successes of our Northwest Territories Team at the 2004 Arctic Winter Games, recently hosted by the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, Alberta.

The Arctic Winter Games were created in 1970 to promote athletic competition, cultural exhibition and social interchange. I believe that the nearly 1,600 athletes and cultural performers representing 10 contingents from seven different countries at this year’s games would agree that these values are as evident today as they were in the past.

The opportunity for young people to attend and participate in the Arctic Winter Games is there only because of the commitment from a number of people who work tirelessly to make it happen. I would like to take a moment to recognize these people.

First and foremost, I want to recognize the athletes and cultural performers themselves. We cannot have a Team NWT without you, so please know that we are proud of each and every one of you for your enthusiasm, your dedication and your sportsmanship.

I would like to extend my congratulations to each of our 105 ulu medal winners. I hope that each of you continues to excel and to always represent the Northwest Territories with your best effort.

To the volunteers and officials from the Sport North Federation and the territorial sport organizations, congratulations on once again preparing our team. A special note of recognition is due for Mr. Bill Othmer from the Sport North Federation who served as our chef de mission for Team NWT. Congratulations to Mr. Othmer and his mission staff.

I would also like to make special mention to all the parents who support their children in their athletic or cultural pursuits. Their dedication of time and money to the development of all our youth is so very deeply appreciated.

Mr. Speaker, while at the Arctic Winter Games, it was my pleasure to launch the recently completed Inuit-style wrestling manual during the wrestling competitions. I was also pleased that the Secretary of State for Physical Activity and Amateur Sport, the Honourable Stan Keyes, was able to join me for this event. This new resource is an important document that supports the teaching and learning of traditional Inuit wrestling, and the manual is dedicated to the late Rick Tremblay, who, for many years, was a leader in amateur wrestling in the North. I am pleased at this time to acknowledge Rick Tremblay’s widow, Nancy Trotter, who was unable to be present in Fort McMurray for the launch, but has joined us here today in the visitors' gallery. Ms. Trotter, please accept our sincere thanks to Rick for all he did for youth in the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Speaker, I am glad that so many Members from this House were able to attend the Arctic Winter Games to show their support for Team NWT and for the games in general.

This gave a clear indication to the athletes and cultural performers from the Northwest Territories that we are proud of their strong effort and enthusiastic participation.

Mr. Speaker, we can be proud of our sport and recreation system and these most recent Arctic Winter Games are a great example of the good that can come from it. Thank you.

---Applause

Speaker: MR. SPEAKER

Item 2, Ministers' statements. Minister Roland.