Debates of February 15, 2005 (day 36)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, about a year ago, I brought to the attention of this House a proposal for a regional airline in Fort Simpson. First Nation communities in my region have recognized an opportunity in the airline sector to capitalize on current economic and tourism development and growth to position themselves for the prospect of the Mackenzie gas project.

Mr. Speaker, this is a very exciting business opportunity for participating communities and the people in the Deh Cho. This business venture will be locally owned and controlled by the people of the region. They have developed a sound proposal and are hoping for the support of this government.

Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, the government has yet to respond and offer their support. Time and time again, Ministers stand up in this House and talk about the importance of a secure economic future, building community capacity and opportunities for northern businesses in various economic sectors. All this sounds great and inspiring, but when there are no resources or funding attached to support locally-owned business to take advantage of any potential opportunities, where do they go when their own government won’t support them?

Mr. Speaker, I am deeply concerned with the lack of support by the GNWT. The GNWT needs to recognize their responsibility to encourage northern businesses and aboriginal corporations. The window of opportunity here is large and the request is small. With just a little bit of assistance to get them off the ground, this is a company that really could take flight. Mahsi cho.

---Applause