Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Hon. Perrin Beattie, federal Minister of Communications, has advised me that the federal government intends to table new telecommunications legislation today.
The tabled telecommunications legislation strives to deal with the importance of this high technology industry in an increasingly global community. Of particular importance is an obligation of the federal Minister to consult with the two territories and the provinces in the discussions of communications issues.
The Minister has also advised me of his intention to regionalize the CRTC, Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission. He will be obtaining the views of the provinces and Territories regarding the location, method of appointment, and duties of commissioners, including regionally-based commissioners. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Beattie also intends to establish a conference of Ministers to discuss emerging policy issues on a regular basis.
Mr. Speaker, I point this out particularly as an indication of the success of the Government of the Northwest Territories in being accepted as a partner with the federal and provincial governments in the management of Canada. I am pleased that we continue to move forward in our efforts to strengthen our position in confederation. Thank you.