Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My statement today deals with open government and an event that took place in the House yesterday. Many times over the last few days we have heard this concept of an open and accountable government and the need to respect and solicit the views of ordinary Members. Members on the other side of the House have used these words often.

However, yesterday when the honourable Member for Thebacha requested unanimous consent to return to oral questions, the Government Leader denied this consent. Surely this cannot be considered open and accountable government.

Most ordinary Members believe the actions of the Government Leader were uncalled for. When Members on this side of the House ask to extend question period it is because they have pressing business with the government; it is not because they are trying to tie up the business of this House. We are a new Legislature, and many Members have important issues that they wish to question cabinet about. Question period is perhaps the best opportunity for Members on this side of the House to ensure that government is open and accountable.

In his Member's statement on Wednesday, Mr. Antoine told us that the strict adherence to parliamentary rules is not the way of the Dene people and does not reflect a northern way of life. Nevertheless, I would remind the Government Leader if the rules of the House can be used to stifle the business of ordinary Members, they can also be used to do the same to government business.

I hope the Government Leader will be more receptive to the wishes of Members on this side of the House in future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause