Colleagues, before we conclude our proceedings for today, I would like to comment on the session just ended. Our spring budget sessions are usually longer and busier than most, and this was certainly no exception. During this session you have considered and passed into law one appropriation act, six supplementary appropriation acts and two other pieces of legislation.
You have debated 12 motions and have considered two committee reports.
I appreciate the work done by all Members during the last six weeks, by Ministers and their departmental staff, by the standing committees and the public. Thank you to all who participated in various ways to move the work of government forward.
This Assembly also made history earlier this week with the signing of the Devolution Agreement. It was my great pleasure to host the Prime Minister of Canada, Ministers Aglukkaq and Valcourt, our own Aboriginal leaders and all Members of the Assembly for this special ceremony which took place in this Chamber.
I would like to thank all of the Pages who have helped us out during this long session. Thank you from all Members of the Assembly for the excellent job you do.
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Colleagues, we will meet again in this Chamber in May. However, I know that the work of government never stops and that committees will be meeting and travelling during the months of April and May. A personal highlight for me during this time will be the convening of the 12th Youth Parliament. Our young counterparts will take over this building during the week of May 6th and will conduct a model Parliament in this Chamber on the afternoon of May 9th. I encourage the public and all Members to attend. We always have time for our youth. This is a real opportunity to see the future of the Northwest Territories in action.
I would also like to encourage all Members to observe the National Day of Healing and Reconciliation on Sunday, May 26th. This is the day set aside by the 15th Legislative Assembly to acknowledge and support the collective healing and reconciliation process that is happening in all our communities.
As you make your way home, Members, I wish you safe travels. Treasure the time you spend with your family and loved ones and enjoy this spectacular season in the North. I’m going home. It’s going to be good. We have carnivals and jamborees happening across the territory, and spring hunts will be starting soon. I hope you all get out to enjoy the beautiful longer days of a northern spring. Members, just be careful when you’re travelling. Watch yourselves and bless you all. I’ll see you in a couple of months. It’s going to be good.
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