Thank you. Mr. Speaker, there is no denial that this has been a very difficult year in the world of northern aviation. Recent air tragedies and the recent loss of aviation pioneers like Mr. Paul Laserich of Adlair Aviation have made some of Range Lake constituents ask what can be done to remind us of the ongoing contribution of aviation in our communities and to commemorate those who risk their lives for the safety and well-being of others.
Bush Pilots Monument in Yellowknife’s Old Town was established in 1967, dedicated to bush pilots and engineers who lost their lives flying in the Northwest Territories in the 1920s and the 1930s. Although the contribution of these individuals should not be marginalized, the Northwest Territories has yet to formally establish a permanent memorial for those who have lost their lives since. It is sad to say, but 44 years have passed for the Bush Pilots Monument, and apart from a new plaque in 1999 and the maintenance by the City of Yellowknife, we, as a territory, have done very little to commemorate our fallen northern aviation heroes.
For the record, there are no other official aviation memorial sites in the Northwest Territories. However, we know that the Government of the Northwest Territories is allocating upgrades to the Norman Wells float base that is to include an aviation museum. Therefore, I ask this government why an aviation memorial could not also be incorporated during these upgrades. It would seem simple, but as Northerners who depend so much on aviation travel, wouldn’t we agree that having multiple aviation memorial sites throughout our land would be the proper way to deal with respect? Many think so, including the constituents of Range Lake.
Mr. Speaker, as a resident of the North, I am always concerned why it takes a series of public tragedies for one to reflect on why something has not been done correctly. Therefore, in the spirit of respect and moving forward, I ask that this government look at formally establishing permanent memorials for our northern aviation pilots and for those aviation victims who have sacrificed their lives since 1967. Thank you.
Thank you, Mr. Dolynny. The honourable Member for Mackenzie Delta, Mr. Blake.
