Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I have now had the opportunity to review the statement made by the Government Leader yesterday regarding grants for Dene bands. I have also had the opportunity to speak with the chiefs from my region, as well as the national chief of the Dene Nation. The general reaction to this initiative is one of cautious support. I would also lend my support to this initiative. It represents the gesture of goodwill on behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories and can be a starting point for us to build a better relationship. I believe it shows that the cabinet has taken very seriously the remarks of the chiefs during our meeting in Fort Rae, and I thank them for that.

I am cautious, Mr. Speaker, because I feel that the whole issue is one of a larger constitutional significance dealing with the jurisdiction of the federal government. I would like to make it quite clear that the federal government is not living up to its obligations to my people under the treaties that we signed with them. It is my hope that we have a full discussion of these issues in the committee of the whole during the winter session, with invited representatives of chiefs, as well as the Dene Nation. Mahsi.