Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. As all Members are aware, the Northwest Territories is going through very difficult economic times. People from all walks of life are affected by the poor performance of the economy. However, Mr. Speaker, nowhere is this economic difficulty felt more than by Dene and Metis people in the communities. These are people who are trappers. Not only do they face the pressure of a declining economy, but at the same time they face pressures from misguided anti-fur activists. The cost of food, supplies and equipment for trappers has been steadily rising over the years, while at the same time, decreases in the price of fur has meant a dramatic drop in the income of trappers. Mr. Speaker, the Trap Exchange Program has also added to this problem. Trappers are told to exchange their leg hold traps for improved traps. The government is funding this exchange. Trapping is a tough life under normal circumstances, and this exchange is
an added burden to a lot of people because of the confusion that it causes.
Mr. Speaker, the combination of these factors is making it virtually impossible for trappers in the Northwest Territories to earn a living now. Mr. Speaker, there are many elders in the Northwest Territories who wish to continue to pursue traditional hunting and trapping lifestyles. However, the current system penalizes some of these trappers if they wish to pursue a traditional livelihood. Many elders who receive old age pension benefits have any income they earn from trapping deducted from their monthly pension cheques. It is a disincentive for many elders to pursue a traditional lifestyle today.
Mr. Speaker, when elders can pursue their lifestyle it creates a more healthy person in body and spirit. It is my opinion that Members of the House should do everything possible to allow people to continue and pursue a traditional way of life. Mahsi.