Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to go back a bit to October 3rd to 9th, which was Family Violence Awareness Week in Canada. I would like to recognize this special week in the importance of violence awareness in our lives.

There were many activities held across the North trying to raise awareness of family violence. In Hay River, as you are no doubt aware, Mr. Speaker, the Hay River Hub published a very informative seven-page section on family violence in their September 29th issue, which we both helped to sponsor. I thought this section was particularly well done. It focused on letting young people know what family violence is, what constitutes abuse, and how to recognize when you are in an abusive relationship. It also provided information on where to turn for help. It is important for all residents of the Northwest Territories to know that they have the right to say no to unwanted sexual attention, and that being hit, verbally abused, or degraded are not things that happen in a normal, healthy relationship.

Parents have a role to play in ensuring that they model what a healthy relationship is to their children. The studies are very conclusive that a person who has been exposed or subjected to abuse is very likely to become an abuser themselves. Parents also have to make sure their children are in healthy relationships and watch for warning signs, such as withdrawal or moodiness, that may signify something more than just ordinary teenage angst.

Teachers, family and friends all have roles to play in ending family violence. If you think a friend is being abused at home or is in an unhealthy relationship, talk to them or talk to someone in authority who can help.

Mr. Speaker, the statistics in the Northwest Territories paint a grim picture. The use of family shelters is eight times the national average. There were 221 spousal assaults reported between January and August in 2003, and there were 28 reported cases of sexual assault on young people under the age of 18. We need to all work together to help the victims, to educate young people and the general public, and to make sure that abusers get the help that they need to deal with their issues so that they can become better parents, partners and family.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize and thank the staff of the Family Support Centre in Hay River who continue to work tirelessly towards providing a safe and secure environment to those in need in my home community and they are: Crystal Ball, executive director; Annette Rideout, administrative assistant; Jennifer Lennie and Angela Farnsworth, family violence support workers; and Melissa Beck, the youth activity coordinator at the Family Support Centre. Thank you for all that you do to help others. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause