Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. There were three main themes. One, there is a need for more workshops, education, resources and discussions on both alternative measures and the current system of justice functioning in Canada today. The communities would like more information on how other aboriginal are dealing with crime and social problems.

Two, the pilot project for the Deh Cho region has been requested.

Three, a full-time staff person to assist the communities with their justice concerns and initiatives as required.

There were 12 recommendations presented regarding policing. It was felt that there should be more interaction and more information sharing between the R.C.M.P. and the communities. More aboriginal police forces for the Deh Cho regions were requested. Non-aboriginal police officers should be given in-depth cross cultural awareness training as the majority of the people in the communities are Dene. The tribal council has been directed to continue working in the area of determining the approaches each member of its communities wishes to take in developing community based justice projects. A regional proposal should be advanced to ensure that the follow-up and support work required in justice projects is available to the tribal members.

The recommendation of the forum indicated that there is a definite need to continue this process of discussion and development. The initiative will require the support of federal, territorial, aboriginal and community resources. Mr. Speaker, the support of the Legislative Assembly to the Deh Cho Tribal Council in its initiative to develop reform in the area of aboriginal justice is crucial. Mahsi Cho.