Mr. Speaker, this week it is Addictions Awareness Week in the Northwest Territories and throughout the rest of Canada. I rise today both to recognize the efforts of the many volunteers who will make this week a success and to make an important announcement for community alcohol and drug workers.

Alcohol and drug programs in the Northwest Territories are operated by local community groups made up of volunteers who commit their time and effort towards reducing the alcohol and drug abuse that is so devastating to the north. Alcohol and drug programs operate in 40 of our communities, under the direction of local boards and agencies. The dedication efforts of the members of these local groups and the commitments made by many, many other community volunteers represent the backbone of alcohol and drug programs.

These volunteers are responsible for helping hundreds of people in their battle against addiction, helping them to recover a happier and healthier lifestyle.

Mr. Speaker, I am sure all Members will join me to acknowledge their efforts with the most successful Addictions Awareness Week, and pledge the ongoing commitment of this government to assist them in every way possible in the battle against alcohol and drug abuse. Many Members of this Assembly have expressed their concern about the wages earned by the community alcohol and drug workers who are employed by the local alcohol programs. These very dedicated individuals stand at the front line in our battle against alcohol and drug abuse. They work against many odds, often alone.

Members of this Assembly have praised their efforts, offered their encouragement and support and voiced their recognition of the contributions which alcohol and drug workers make to their communities and to the individuals and families whom they help. The time is overdue for a more tangible form of reward and recognition for our community alcohol and drug workers.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to announce an increase to community alcohol and drug workers' salaries. Thank you.

---Applause

Specific details will be contained in the supplementary appropriation coming before this Assembly later in this sitting.

I trust that the Members of this Assembly will support the appropriation, and that during this fiscal year we will be able to show our support to community alcohol and drug workers.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause