Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This summer in the Nunakput community of Paulatuk, Darnley Bay Resources Ltd, a mining exploration company based in Toronto, will be continuing their studies of ground surveys and taking seismic readings of the community, a section of potentially mineral rich land bordering Tuktut Nogait National Park. Similar to projects all across this Territory, this project has experienced slowdown due to the global economy. Fortunately, this project has again built some momentum and financing to move forward.
Nunakput needs this project. Paulatuk needs this project, Mr. Speaker. Nunakput realizes this project is still in the early stages. That’s why we’re getting involved to ensure that economic development projects such as these progress.
In addition, along with the development of this project, concerns of the community regarding wildlife and environment must also be protected. I believe Paulatuk could benefit socially and economically from this Darnley Bay project while maintaining and protecting the traditional way of life and the environment, Mr. Speaker.
As I mentioned previously, in our Nunakput communities, every year we go through the same thing: people having to leave the community. The primary reason is the lack of real jobs and opportunities in their hometowns. This is going to be a serious problem in the future. Our communities are going to places where we go for holidays in the summer. Communities are empty of our youth. This government needs to get active to assist remote communities with serious programs so jobs can be created for our residents that have to leave their homes.
One concern raised by a constituent is this government doesn’t really care about small communities. The residents leave the communities just because of the federal transfers. All regions must be treated equally, Mr. Speaker. The unique conditions and the economic limitations are considered, while allowing resource and various programs all across the North. The unemployment situation in the communities is a serious issue and we’re failing, Mr. Speaker. The lack of opportunities for our youth in the communities of Nunakput, we’re almost failing them too.
Mr. Speaker, creating jobs is the best way of having vibrant communities, but Nunakput needs job creation in unique and difficult challenges.
Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
---Unanimous consent granted
Mr. Speaker, this government must do more to assist regions to develop the capacity and infrastructure to attract industry, investment and jobs. This government needs to place more attention to resources in small communities and remote communities regarding economic development programs. Mr. Speaker, this program needs to develop a coalition of partners and stakeholders in the Nunakput region due to the unique set of challenges, and promote and coordinate a truly northern, regional and intergovernmental approach at rejuvenating our economy in Nunakput and all across the Territories in the small communities, Mr. Speaker.
Mr. Speaker, I will have questions for the Premier at the appropriate time. Thank you.
