Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, almost two years ago, I stood in front of my colleagues and explained why I felt that I would be an appropriate choice to become one of seven Ministers for the 18th Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories. I was honoured and humbled with the vote of confidence shown to me at the beginning of this Legislative Assembly, and not once have I forgotten the responsibility I carry for the residents of the Northwest Territories.

We've all worked hard towards achieving the mandate commitments, and I appreciate the endeavours of my colleagues from both sides of this House, as well as the amazing dedication of my personal staff, department heads, employees on the ground, and those behind the scenes. In regards to gender equity, we have made some progress. As of January 2017, gender equity on NWT public boards and agencies reached 50 per cent. We also completed two women in leadership workshops and are reviewing the feedback to develop a made-in-the-North curriculum that will equip women for a broad range of leadership roles.

The Department of Municipal and Community Affairs has enhanced its support to community and Indigenous governments through online courses and training designed specifically for Indigenous governments. As well, we have modified the accountability framework tool and the asset management framework to better assist in capital planning and identifying training needs. We continue to provide a host of supports to encourage wellness through physical activity, healthy lifestyles, and community leadership. Evaluations have been completed on some of the youth programs to ensure that we are providing services that meet their needs.

Mr. Chair, I have held high expectations of all of my team, and I am exceptionally proud of the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation. The corporation has expanded community property management services to provide better service and increase jobs in communities. We are addressing homelessness through support of the City of Yellowknife's Housing First project, building semi-independent units, and constructing shelters in three other communities. We have also constructed more seniors' units, and provided information seminars to assist seniors to age in place.

The Northwest Territories Housing Corporation has made a significant shift in direction. Over the last two years, I have watched the transformation of programs, policies, and even employees as we move beyond simply providing housing supports to a place of supporting people to obtain, maintain, and retain their homes. Mr. Chair, all the work that we have done has been in a spirit of transparency, accountability, and collaboration. MLAs provided direction through the mandate, and we have worked with community and Aboriginal governments, stakeholders, and residents to help shape our approaches and meet the needs of residents. Almost 1500 replies to the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation's survey have provided the background for policy and program enhancements.

We have built solid relationships with provincial and territorial counterparts, and federal Ministers. These partnerships have resulted in funding specifically dedicated to addressing the needs of the Northwest Territories, and I am confident that we will see even more long-term federal investment. Mr. Chair, I have taken the mandate of this Legislative Assembly seriously, and my team has worked hard to live up to the expectations placed on us. Our successes are the result of a commitment to work together with partners, stakeholders, and residents. I look forward to continuing to work with these amazing people as we all strive to provide the best services for the people of the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Chair.