Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am very pleased to bring to the attention of all Members a scientific achievement which has been developed in the Baffin Region, and which I am sure all Members will find most exciting. The project involves a scientific method to convert DC power to AC power. In simple terms, the invention uses power from ordinary car batteries and changes this battery power into a form that is exactly the same as what we get from an ordinary wall socket in any home. For example, it can take two 12-volt car batteries and convert that into 1500 watts of power that will last for a minimum of 100 hours. All of this from a box weighing about 36 pounds!
In addition, the system can be easily recharged in a number of ways from windmills and solar panels to an ordinary battery charger. This means that the power is virtually available at all times, and the life of these batteries becomes spectacular in length.
The implications for power in remote communities is fantastic as it will offer options for a power source that eliminates much of the capital costs we presently incur when we install or provide portable generators. A new company called North Port, under the capable leadership of its president, Mr. Richard Porter, who is in this House today, has recently announced the completion of their factory in Iqaluit to meet the heavy demand for orders of this marvellous product. Initially, 10 local residents -- and I am happy to say they are to be all women -- will be employed in the factory, and with expanded growth potential, these figures will undoubtedly rise.
Mr. Speaker, I am proud of the efforts of my constituent, Mr. Jean Lambert, who invented this marvellous device, and I believe very strongly that the benefits from the manufacture of this amazing invention should stay in the North. I am also delighted that he has had collaboration with residents of Igloolik, notably Mr. Porter and Mr. Ike Haulli, to get this product marketed and off the ground.
Mr. Speaker, I would also like to distribute a recent newspaper article that provides more detail for Members. In doing so, I want to object to the...