Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My statement today is about our support of a crucial sector of our economy, the resource sector, in particular, the mining sector. Mr. Speaker, in the past couple of decades, the northern economy has diversified in many ways. That's positive, and we have a way to go in continuing that work. Not long ago, there were few choices for major economic activity. Beyond the traditional economy, there was government and the mines. The next big hope was oil and gas. Northerners became big supporters, counting on real economic growth. Hopes of a resourcerich northern Texas of sorts have come and gone over the generations. Now, world oil prices are slumping, climate change is a reality, and green energy is emerging. It's hard to imagine how major oil and gas development may even become a reality. Today, there are other success stories: small business, creative arts and tourism, and that's all good. It's important to seek new and diverse ways to generate wealth. That's the way to build a solid foundation for our younger generations, new Northerners, and frankly, our future. We should not forget one of the foundations of our economy, mining and exploration. Mr. Speaker, the mining sector has been central to the development of our economy. Mining provides diverse returns, not only jobs, but training, secondary spending, and taxes and royalties to public and Aboriginal governments. In turn, they can develop programs and services to support and empower their communities. My colleague just spoke earlier about capacity building. That is what this is about. Many of the NWT's current mines are maturing, and exploration is on the decline. This is a worrisome sign for the future of this sector and to our GDP. This provides challenges we must face during the life of this Assembly. Mr. Speaker, I believe a successful mining sector can generate wealth for our territory, while maintaining a good and responsible environmental stewardship. The government can take many steps to improve the climate for exploration and mining development. It's time we invite the world to see what we can offer, and that is world class resources. At the appropriate time, I will have questions for the Minister of ITI. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Masi. Members’ statements. Member for Tu NedheWiilideh.
